How to Grow Delphinium Magic Fountains
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Delphinium Magic Fountains
Delphinium × cultorum 'Magic Fountains'
flowerMagic Fountains is a compact delphinium cultivar bred for garden versatility, featuring dense spikes of blue, purple, pink, or white flowers. This dwarf variety typically reaches 2-3 feet tall, making it suitable for borders and containers while maintaining the classic delphinium charm. The flowers bloom in early to mid-summer with a long flowering period when properly deadheaded.
When should you plant Delphinium Magic Fountains in your zone?
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Example Delphinium Magic Fountains timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Delphinium Magic Fountains
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Delphinium Magic Fountains blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Delphinium Magic Fountains dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-7, prefers cool climates; challenging in zones 8+ without afternoon shade
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Seed Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny green cotyledons emerging; first true leaves appearing with characteristic palmate shape
Requires cold stratification (4-6 weeks chilling); keep soil moist and provide bright light. Maintain 60-65°F for optimal germination. Start indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksEstablished seedling with 4-6 true leaves; developing sturdy stems and dark green foliage; no flower buds yet
Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart. Keep consistently moist. Begin hardening off 2 weeks before transplanting outdoors. Support stems with small stakes if indoors.
Budding & Flowering Initiation
2-3 weeksElongated flower spike forming along the main stem; individual flower buds clustering densely along the rachis
Ensure consistent watering—critical to prevent bud drop. Apply stake or support cage to prevent lodging. Feed with balanced fertilizer or bloom-boosting formula (lower nitrogen).
Peak Bloom
3-5 weeks per spikeDense spike of open flowers in blue, purple, pink, or white; flowers opening progressively from bottom upward; plant reaches full 2-3 foot height
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Remove entire spike once majority of flowers fade. Water at base; avoid wetting flowers. Stake if needed for wind protection.
Seed Set & Decline
2-4 weeksUpper flowers fading; seed pods developing; foliage may yellow; plant energy shifts to seed production
Remove spent spikes to promote reblooming and prevent excessive self-seeding. Continue watering through summer. In cooler zones, plant may rebloom in fall if deadheaded early.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; spray with strong water jet; use miticide if severe. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Hand-pick early morning; use copper barriers or diatomaceous earth around base. Beer traps or slug pellets if population is high.
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Hand-pick in early morning; use pheromone traps away from plants. Neem oil as preventative.
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage beneficial insects (ladybugs, lacewings, parasitic wasps).
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering. Apply sulfur dust or fungicide at first sign. Remove affected leaves.
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Remove infected flowers and foliage immediately. Improve drainage and air circulation. Fungicide spray if widespread.
Uses
Crystallized Flowers for Decoration
CulinaryDelphinium flowers can be crystallized with egg white and sugar for use as elegant cake and dessert decorations. Ensure flowers are grown without pesticides if intended for consumption. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements
CraftMagic Fountains produce excellent cut flowers for vases and floral designs, with long stems and densely packed blooms. The compact growth habit also makes them ideal for garden borders and color accents. [source]
Dried Flower Arrangements
HouseholdDried delphinium flowers retain color well and are popular in dried arrangements, wreaths, and preserved bouquets. Hang entire spikes upside-down in a cool, dark place to dry. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeDelphinium flowers attract bumblebees, honeybees, and butterflies, making them valuable for supporting pollinator populations in gardens. The tall spikes provide nectar sources throughout summer. [source]
Historical Herbal Use
MedicinalHistorically, delphinium alkaloids were used in traditional medicine, though the plant is toxic and no longer recommended for internal use. Modern herbalism avoids delphiniums due to toxicity concerns. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Delphiniums are ornamental flowers, not harvested for food. For cut flowers: cut spikes in early morning when lower 2/3 of flowers are open. Strip lower foliage to prevent bacterial rot in vase. Change water every 2-3 days. Recut stems at an angle. Flowers last 7-10 days in a vase. For seed saving: allow one or two spikes to fully mature; collect dried seed pods in late summer/early fall and dry further indoors.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Magic Fountains delphiniums were specifically bred to be more compact and weather-resistant than tall delphinium varieties, making them suitable for contemporary gardens where the classic 5-6 foot tall types are impractical.
- 🌱 Delphinium flowers contain toxic alkaloids and should never be ingested by humans or pets; all parts of the plant are poisonous, so handle with care and keep away from children and animals.
- 🌱 The name 'delphinium' derives from the Greek word 'delphis' (dolphin), as the flower's nectary spur resembles a dolphin's snout—a whimsical reference visible in the side profile of the bloom.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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