Delphinium on a Headstone: Meaning

Delphiniums send up tall spires of true blue, purple and white flowers in early summer. With their close cousin larkspur, they carry meanings of an open heart, lightness of spirit and remembrance.

What it means

Dolphin flowers and larkspur

The name comes from the Greek for dolphin, because the flower buds were thought to look like a dolphin's nose. Larkspur, a close relative, is the traditional birth flower for July, and purple larkspur in particular has long been associated with remembering a loved one. Both are classic plants of the English cottage border.

Design ideas

• A tall blue spire rising up one side of the stone.
• Mixed delphiniums in a cottage-garden border.
• Blue colour-fill on grey granite.
• Delphiniums with bees — see beehive meaning.

Who it suits

Open-hearted, light-spirited people; July birthdays; cottage gardeners; and families wanting a flower that quietly means remembrance. See flower meanings.

A tall design

Like gladioli, delphinium spires suit tall upright stones, cathedral shapes and narrow monuments, with the bloom rising beside the inscription.

A plant to admire, not plant

Delphiniums and larkspur are toxic if eaten, so they're best carved in stone or brought as cut flowers rather than planted at a grave where pets or children visit.

Epitaphs to pair

• An open heart.
• Light of spirit, forever.
• Remembered with love.
• Reaching heavenward.

Key Takeaways

• Delphiniums mean an open heart and lightness.
• Purple larkspur stands for remembrance.
• Larkspur is the July birth flower.
• Tall spires suit upright stones.

Next Step

See gladiolus meaning and foxglove meaning.