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Prairie larkspur
Scientific Name: (Delphinium virescens)
Definition: Prairie larkspur is in the Crowfoot family
(Ranunculaceae). Also called "plains larkspur". The stem is
unbranched and slender, growing up to 60", but more often 12-18".
The flowers are about 1" wide and white, sometimes faintly blue.
5 upper petals (sepals, actually) create a distinguishable backward projecting
spur. The actual petals are 4 in number and cluster in center of flower.
Flowers grow several together at top of the stalk. The plant is poisonous
and can cause death in cows when overgrazed. Blooms April - July. |