Kale (Ornamental) vs Larkspur Delphinium Plant Comparison
Compare these two plants side by side — care needs, key differences, and which is right for your home.
Kale (Ornamental)
Brassica oleracea var. sabellica
Ornamental kale is a cool-season biennial grown as an annual for its vibrant, colorful foliage. It is not grown for consumption, though it is related to edible kale. The plant forms a rosette of frilly or ruffled leaves in shades of white, pink, purple, and red. Ornamental kale is primarily an outdoor plant, thriving in cooler temperatures and full sun. It is often used in fall and winter gardens for its striking visual appeal, providing color when many other plants are dormant. While technically possible to grow indoors, it is challenging to provide the necessary light and temperature conditions for optimal growth.
Larkspur Delphinium
Delphinium spp.
Larkspurs are annual or perennial herbaceous plants known for their tall, elegant flower spikes. They typically grow to heights of 1 to 6 feet, depending on the species and cultivar. The flowers come in a wide range of colors, including blue, purple, pink, white, and yellow. Larkspurs are primarily outdoor plants, prized for their striking vertical presence in gardens and borders. They are grown for their beautiful, showy flowers that attract pollinators.
Quick Plant Comparison
| Feature | Kale (Ornamental) | Larkspur Delphinium |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to partial shade. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best color development. | Full sun |
| Watering | Every 3-7 days depending on environmental conditions and pot size. | Every 3-7 days, depending on weather and soil drainage |
| Humidity | 40-60% | 30-50% |
| Temperature | 10-18°C | 15-24°C |
| Care Level | Expert | Expert |
| Growth Rate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Max Height | Indoors: 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) | Rarely grown indoors, outdoor height 0.3-1.8 meters |
| Pet Safety | ❌ Toxic To Pets | ❌ Toxic To Pets |
| Soil | Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. | Well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0) |
| Beginner Friendly | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Weekly Maintenance | 5-10 minutes weekly | 30 minutes weekly (weeding, watering, deadheading) |
🔬 Botanical Information — Comparing These Plants
Kale (Ornamental)
| Scientific Name | Brassica oleracea var. sabellica |
|---|---|
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Native To | Europe and Asia |
| Also Known As | Ornamental Kale, Flowering Kale, Decorative Kale |
| Leaves | The leaves of ornamental kale are broad and frilly or ruffled, with varying degrees of texture. They come in a range of colors, including white, pink, purple, and red, often with contrasting veins and edges. The leaves can be quite large, reaching up to 30 cm (12 inches) in diameter. |
| Flowers | Ornamental kale will bolt and produce flowers in its second year, typically after a period of cold exposure. The flowers are small and yellow, similar to other members of the Brassica family. However, it is typically grown as an annual, so flowering is not common. |
Larkspur Delphinium
| Scientific Name | Delphinium spp. |
|---|---|
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Native To | Primarily Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America |
| Also Known As | Larkspur, Delphinium |
| Leaves | The leaves are deeply lobed and finely divided, giving them a delicate, fern-like appearance. They are typically green or bluish-green in color and arranged alternately along the stem. |
| Flowers | Rarely flowers indoors. Outdoors, they produce tall spikes of spurred flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, white, and yellow. The flowers bloom in summer. |
📏 Size & Growth — Plant Comparison
Kale (Ornamental)
Larkspur Delphinium
🌱 Propagation — Comparing Plant Growth
Kale (Ornamental)
Methods: Seed
Difficulty: Easy
Tips: Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Keep soil moist and provide adequate light. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
Larkspur Delphinium
Methods: Seed, Division
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: For seeds, cold stratification is often required. Divide established plants in early spring or fall.
✨ Benefits & Features — Comparing Plant Value
Kale (Ornamental)
Ornamental kale is unique for its vibrant, non-traditional colors and frilly or ruffled leaves. Unlike edible kale, it is primarily grown for its aesthetic appeal. Its colors intensify in cooler temperatures, making it a popular choice for fall and winter gardens.
- ✓ Adds vibrant color to gardens during cooler months.
- ✓ Attracts beneficial insects.
- ✓ Provides a unique visual element.
- ✓ Relatively low-maintenance outdoors.
- ✓ Can be used in cut flower arrangements.
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
Larkspur Delphinium
Larkspurs are known for their tall, elegant flower spikes and vibrant colors. They are a classic cottage garden flower and a favorite of pollinators. Their toxicity makes them unsuitable for homes with pets or small children.
- ✓ Attracts pollinators to your garden.
- ✓ Adds vertical interest and vibrant colors to outdoor spaces.
- ✓ Provides cut flowers for bouquets.
- ✓ Can be used to create a classic cottage garden aesthetic.
- ✓ Offers a sense of accomplishment for experienced gardeners.
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
📅 Maintenance Schedule — Plant Care Comparison
Kale (Ornamental)
Larkspur Delphinium
🌞 Light Requirements
Kale (Ornamental)
Full sun to partial shade. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best color development.
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
Larkspur Delphinium
Full sun
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
💧 Watering Needs
Kale (Ornamental)
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage. Signs of underwatering include wilting leaves; overwatering includes yellowing leaves and a soggy soil.
Larkspur Delphinium
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases. Overwatering can lead to root rot, indicated by yellowing leaves and wilting. Underwatering results in dry, crispy leaves and stunted growth.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Kale (Ornamental)
Temperature: 10-18°C
Humidity: 40-60%
Larkspur Delphinium
Temperature: 15-24°C
Humidity: 30-50%
🤔 Which Plant Is Right For You?
Kale (Ornamental)
Brassica oleracea var. sabellicaGardeners looking to add color to their fall and winter gardens in cooler climates.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You want vibrant color in your fall and winter garden.
- You live in a cooler climate where it thrives.
- You enjoy unique and visually striking foliage.
- You are looking for a low-maintenance outdoor plant for seasonal displays.
- You want to attract beneficial insects to your garden.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You live in a hot climate where it will struggle.
- You are looking for an easy indoor plant.
- You have pets that might ingest it.
- You prefer edible kale varieties for culinary purposes.
Larkspur Delphinium
Delphinium spp.Experienced gardeners looking to add vertical interest and vibrant colors to their outdoor flower beds.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You want tall, vibrant flowers in your garden.
- You want to attract pollinators to your yard.
- You have a sunny garden spot that needs a vertical accent.
- You enjoy the challenge of growing somewhat finicky plants.
- You appreciate classic cottage garden flowers.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You have pets or small children who might ingest the plant.
- You lack a sunny outdoor garden space.
- You are a beginner gardener looking for easy-to-grow plants.
🎯 Quick Verdict
⚡ Key Differences Between These Plants
Both plants have similar basic care requirements but differ in appearance and specific needs. Compare plants carefully to find the best fit for your space.
💡 Pro Tips For Comparing These Plants
Kale (Ornamental) Care Tips
Ornamental kale is primarily an outdoor plant and requires specific conditions to thrive indoors. Providing sufficient light and cool temperatures is crucial. Indoor growth is often less vibrant and shorter-lived than outdoor growth. Requires vigilant monitoring for pests and diseases.
- Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best color development.
- Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Protect from extreme cold in winter.
- Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to prevent disease.
Larkspur Delphinium Care Tips
Larkspurs are challenging to grow indoors due to their high light requirements and need for cool temperatures. They are best suited for outdoor gardens. Indoor attempts often result in weak, leggy growth and failure to flower. Proper drainage is crucial.
- Provide support for tall varieties to prevent them from falling over.
- Ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
- Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms.
- Protect from strong winds that can damage the flower spikes.
- Monitor for pests and diseases and treat promptly.
⚠️ Common Problems & Solutions — Plant Care Comparison
Kale (Ornamental)
Larkspur Delphinium
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Comparing These Plants
Kale (Ornamental)
What are the light requirements for Kale (Ornamental)?
Ornamental kale needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to develop its best color. In hotter climates, providing some afternoon shade can prevent the leaves from scorching. If growing indoors, place near a south-facing window or supplement with grow lights. Insufficient light can result in leggy growth and faded colors. Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even light exposure on all sides. If the plant is not getting enough light, the colors will be less intense and the leaves may turn more green than purple or pink.
How do I care for Kale (Ornamental)?
Ornamental kale thrives in cool weather and requires full sun to partial shade. Plant in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, especially during the growing season to encourage vibrant colors. Deadhead any fading or damaged leaves to maintain a tidy appearance and promote new growth. Protect from extreme cold and frost, as this can damage the foliage. Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Monitor for pests such as aphids and cabbage worms, and treat accordingly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
How do I propagate Kale (Ornamental)?
Ornamental kale is typically grown from seed, but it can also be propagated by stem cuttings.
Larkspur Delphinium
What are the light requirements for Larkspur Delphinium?
Larkspur Delphiniums thrive in full sun, needing a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day to produce abundant blooms. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth, weak stems, and reduced flowering. When planting, choose a location that receives morning sun, which helps to dry the foliage and prevent fungal diseases.
How do I care for Larkspur Delphinium?
Larkspur Delphiniums need well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Plant in a location with full sun, providing at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering. Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer, switching to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus to promote blooming.
How do I propagate Larkspur Delphinium?
Larkspur Delphiniums can be propagated by division, stem cuttings, or seed. Division is best done in spring or fall by carefully separating the root ball and replanting the divisions. For stem cuttings, take 4-6 inch cuttings from new growth in spring, remove the lower leaves, and plant in a well-draining rooting medium. Keep the cuttings moist and in a humid environment until rooted.
Last updated: May 11, 2026 — Plant care data reviewed and verified by our editorial team.