Don't Crush that Dwarf

On April 27, nestled among the Bluebells that were growing below the Earl L. Core Arboretum were some Dwarf Larkspurs (Delphinium tricorne).  These are native perennials that prefer dappled shade. This seems to be a good year for them, because I saw them pretty much everywhere along my bike ride.

In this first shot, you can see the leaves of the Bluebells growing among the Larkspurs.

Here's a closeup shot taken further down along the river trail.

According to a writeup I found at Midwest Native Plants, Gardens, and Wildlife, these plants are pretty toxic.  Another name for the plant is staggerweed, given for its effect on cattle.

The title of this blog post?  It comes from this relic of the past.