Scarlet Larkspur
Delphinium cardinale
Last reviewed: June 2026
Delphinium cardinale is a striking California native perennial that produces tall spikes of bright red flowers from April through July. This drought-tolerant wildflower thrives in full sun and attracts hummingbirds and bees.
Scarlet 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
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA
Pollinators
hummingbirds, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Scarlet Larkspur is a striking native perennial with tall spikes of vibrant red flowers that bloom from spring through summer. The plant features delicate, lacy foliage and rises on slender stems to heights of 2-5 feet, creating a dramatic vertical accent in dry gardens.
Growing Scarlet Larkspur
Grow Scarlet Larkspur in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 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
Scarlet Larkspur is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Tall flower stalks may look untidy after blooming
- Goes dormant and dies back in winter
- Can have a wild, less manicured appearance
Wildlife value
The tubular red flowers are excellent hummingbird attractants, while also supporting native bee populations as a valuable nectar source.
Common questions
- When does Delphinium cardinale bloom?
- Scarlet Larkspur blooms from April through July, producing dramatic spikes of bright red flowers that can reach several feet tall.
- What pollinators visit Delphinium cardinale?
- This native California wildflower is primarily pollinated by hummingbirds, which are attracted to its bright red tubular flowers. Bees also visit the blooms for nectar and pollen.
- Where is Delphinium cardinale native?
- Scarlet Larkspur is native to California, where it grows naturally in chaparral, oak woodlands, and dry slopes in mountainous regions.
- Is Scarlet Larkspur toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Scarlet 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 Scarlet Larkspur toxic to cats?
- Yes. Scarlet 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 Scarlet Larkspur HOA-friendly?
- Scarlet 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 Scarlet Larkspur and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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