Definitions for "Delphinium"
any plant of the genus Delphinium having palmately divided leaves and showy spikes of variously colored spurred flowers; some contain extremely poisonous substances
Usually found in blue, white, rose or lavender. Long stocks covered with delicate blossoms and lacy foliage. Delphinium requires a lot of water and is particularly lovely in vase arrangements. Many brides include some delphinium in their bouquets as part of the "something blue" tradition. Available spring through fall.
The name delphinium comes from the Greek word delphis, which means dolphin. The individual blossoms of a delphinium flower are called spurs. If you look at the spurs they resemble the head of a dolphin. The Greeks had an interesting story to explain the origin of the delphinium. Thetis, the mother of Achilles, wanted her son's armor to be given to the Greek warrior that had performed the most valiantly during the battle of Troy. She chose Ulyssess on whom to bestow the gift. When the heroic Ajax heard that he had not been the warrior to be so honored, he was so despondent that he threw himself on his sword. From the drops of his blood spilling on the earth, deep blue delphiniums bloomed.