Delphinium subsect. Multiplex

Roots 2-6-branched, (5-)10-40(-50) cm, twisted fibrous, dry to fleshy, thin threadlike segments apparent nearly entire length; buds more than 3 mm, sometimes present during dormant season. Stems 1-4(-8) per root, usually unbranched, rarely less than 60 cm, elongation delayed 1-3 weeks after leaf initiation; base usually not narrowed, firmly attached to root; proximal internodes much shorter than those of midstem. Leaves basal and cauline, largest near base of stem, others usually abruptly smaller on distal portion of stem; basal petioles ± spreading, cauline petioles ascending; basal leaves more rounded and with fewer, wider lobes than cauline leaves. Inflorescences usually 3-12 flowers per 5 cm, dense to open, cylindric, spurs sometimes intersecting rachis; pedicel ascending, usually less than 2 cm; if stems less than 60 cm, then pedicel remotely ascending (sigmoid); bracts usually markedly smaller and fewer lobed than leaves. Fruits erect. Seeds rectangular to crescent-shaped, 1.8-3 × 1.3-2.5 mm, not ringed at proximal end, wing-margined or not; seed coats with small irregular wavy ridges or ripples, cells elongate (more than 3 times longer than wide), cell margins straight.

Distribution

w United States.

Discussion

Species 4 (4 in the flora).

Selected References

None.

Lower Taxa

Delphinium inopinum, Delphinium multiplex, Delphinium polycladon, Delphinium viridescens

Key

1	Sepals yellowish green.	Delphinium viridescens
1	Sepals bluish or purplish (sometimes white, or lavender), not yellow or yellowish.	> 2
2	Leaves usually absent from proximal 1/5 of stem at anthesis.	Delphinium multiplex
2	Leaves present on proximal 1/5 of stem at anthesis.	> 3
3	Bracteoles less than 4mm; spurs 9–12 mm; pedicel 0.3–1.5(–2.5) cm; sepals white to light blue.	Delphinium inopinum
3	Bracteoles more than 4mm; spurs 11–22 mm; pedicel 1–4(–15) cm; sepals bluish purple.	Delphinium polycladon