White version of Delphinium nuttallianum, May 19, 2020
Close-up of wonderful hybrid
Typically-colored D. nuttallianum, May 19, 2020
Common & scientific name
Nuttall’s larkspur, Delphinium nuttallianum
Family
Buttercup, Ranunculaceae
Location
Difficult Trail, 8,100’
Fun, weird, helpful, or little known fact
Nuttall’s larkspur often occurs in white form, the result of a genetic mutation that forces the switching on and off of certain genes that cause parts of a plant to grow without pigmentation. A true “albino” would have white stems and leaves, as well. In the case of Nuttall’s larkspur, it doesn’t appear to affect its survivability. Indeed, this larkspur is having a banner year in 2020!