Stavesacre

A genus of some 250 species of biennials and perennials, found in northern temperate regions and montane areas of C Africa. Delphiniums are closely related to monkshoods (Aconitum spp. See, monkshood) . Both are very poisonous but are widely grown for their fine blue flowers. Delphinium is from the Greek delphis, "dolphin", because the spurred flowers of some species are rather similar in shape. Delphinium staphisagria (stavesacre) and the closely related Consolida ajacis (larkspur) contain diterpene alkaloids. Both are extremely toxic plants and are rarely used by herbalists today. Delphinium staphisagria was used as a parasiticide in Greek and Roman times. It is a handsome plant that deserves to be more widely grown. The common name "stavesacre" is from staphis, "raisin", and agria, "wild", the reason for which is somewhat obscure.

Hairy biennial with stout stems and glossy, downy, palmate leaves, to 15cm (6in) across. Dusky mauve-blue, short-spurred flowers, to 2.5cm (1in) across, appear in racemes in late spring and early summer.

Common Name:	Stavesacre
Botanical Name:	Delphinium staphisagria
Genus:	Delphinium
Family:	Ranunculaceae
Native Location:	Meditteranean regions
Cultivation:	Well-drained soil in sun.
Propagation:	By seed sown in spring at 13°C (55°F)
Harvest:	Seeds are collected when ripe for use in lotions and ointments.
Height:	1.5m (5ft)
Width:	45-75cm (18-30in)
Hardiness:	Z9
Parts Used:	Seeds
Properties:	An acrid, bitter herb with potent insecticidal properties and parasiticidal effects.
Medicinal Uses:	Externally for head lice.
Warning:	Toxic if eaten
Bibliography:	Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pps. 191-192