Description: Delphinium ‘Little Blue Butterfly’ is a charming dwarf perennial known for its compact size and striking, sky-blue flowers with contrasting white bee centres. Bred for smaller spaces and containers, this variety brings the classic elegance of traditional delphiniums to modern, low-maintenance gardens. Its finely divided green foliage forms a neat mound, topped in late spring and early summer with sprays of delicate blooms that resemble fluttering butterflies — hence the name. Unlike tall delphiniums, ‘Little Blue Butterfly’ doesn’t require staking and is far less prone to wind damage, making it perfect for Melbourne’s variable weather. It prefers a position in full sun to part shade with rich, well-drained soil and benefits from protection from harsh afternoon sun and strong winds. Regular deadheading will promote a second flush of flowers. Its compact habit, soft colour, and long flowering make it a standout for borders, cottage gardens, and feature pots.
Form:
Shrub - Small
Herbaceous
Mature Size:
Height: 30–40 cm
Width: 25–30 cm
Aspect:
Full Sun
Part Shade
Flowering:
Flowers in Spring
Flowers in Summer
Flower Colour:
Sky Blue
White (bee/centre)
Key Attributes:
Suitable for Pots
Bee Attracting
Perennial
Herbaceous
Suitable for Cottage Gardens
Cold Tolerant
Low Maintenance
Toxicity: Toxic to humans and animals if ingested. All parts of the plant contain alkaloids and may cause nausea, vomiting, or more severe symptoms in larger quantities.
Companion Plants:
Salvia nemorosa
Coreopsis ‘Moonbeam’
Achillea millefolium
Heuchera ‘Lime Marmalade’
Nepeta ‘Walker’s Low’
Plant Growers Australia (PGA) is an innovative wholesale production nursery based in Melbourne, renowned for superior quality garden plants and pioneering breeding programs. PGA do not sell direct to the public, but their website has detailed information on this species that is available for everyone to access. Visit www.pga.com.au for further details and photos of this plant.