San Bernardino Larkspur
Delphinium parryi
Last reviewed: July 2026
Delphinium parryi is a California native wildflower that produces tall spikes of blue flowers from April through June. This drought-tolerant larkspur thrives in full sun and attracts bees and hummingbirds.
San Bernardino Larkspur is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Delphinium parryi, commonly called Parry's larkspur, is a native perennial with striking tall spikes of deep blue to purple flowers. It blooms in spring to early summer, adding vertical interest to gardens while requiring minimal water once established.
Growing San Bernardino Larkspur
Grow San Bernardino Larkspur in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
San Bernardino Larkspur is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, foundation.
- Looks untidy after blooming when foliage dies back
- May need staking to prevent flopping
- Can appear sparse when not in bloom
Wildlife value
This plant is highly valuable to native bees and hummingbirds, providing nectar during its spring bloom period. Bumblebees particularly favor these flowers for their abundant nectar resources.
Common questions
- When does San Bernardino Larkspur bloom?
- Delphinium parryi typically blooms from April through June, producing distinctive tall spikes of blue flowers.
- What pollinators visit Delphinium parryi?
- San Bernardino Larkspur attracts both bees and hummingbirds with its tubular blue flowers arranged in tall racemes.
- Where is Delphinium parryi native?
- This larkspur species is native to California, where it grows naturally in chaparral and woodland areas.
- Is San Bernardino Larkspur toxic to dogs?
- Yes. San Bernardino Larkspur is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is San Bernardino Larkspur toxic to cats?
- Yes. San Bernardino Larkspur is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is San Bernardino Larkspur HOA-friendly?
- San Bernardino Larkspur is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like San Bernardino Larkspur and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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