red larkspur
In late winter and spring, scarlet flowers with elongated tails perch on upright stalks, usually not more than 3 ft tall. The green, lobed leaves which form a low mound above the ground have a distinctive pale patch in their centers. This native makes its home on summer-dry slopes throughout much of Northern California and parts of Central Ca., inhabiting bright, open woodlands and rocky road cuts. Needs good drainage and little to no irrigation in the summer. While it can grow in a fair amount of shade, it blooms best under a bright, dappled canopy. A favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies. All parts are poisonous if ingested.