Larkspur (Delphinium 'Benary's Pacific Cameliard')
While the cultivar ‘Benary’s Pacific Cameliard’ is a *cultivated variety* bred for specific traits, the *Delphinium* genus (which it belongs to) has a wider geographical distribution, and its *parentage* influences its origin.
Here’s a breakdown to determine the likely geographical influence:
* **Delphinium Genus:** The *Delphinium* genus is widespread in the **Northern Hemisphere**. Major centers of diversity are in **North America (particularly the western mountains), Europe, and Asia.**
* **”Pacific” Hybrid:** This is a very big clue. *Delphinium elatum* and *Delphinium belladonna* cultivars, which grow native to the Alpine Mountains of Europe, where crossed with *Delphinium cardinale*, a plant native to California. The “Pacific” in ‘Benary’s Pacific Cameliard’ strongly suggests that its breeding line involved Delphiniums developed at the Pacific Coast area in the U.S., likely California, incorporating *Delphinium cardinale* traits.
* **’Benary’s’ Origin:** The “Benary’s” part refers to the Benary Seed Company, a German company. This would infer that the cultivar itself was likely developed in **Germany**.
**Likely Geographical Influence:**
Given the factors above, the most probable conclusion is:
1. **Europe (Alpine):** Due to the parentage from *Delphinium elatum* and *Delphinium belladonna*.
2. **Western North America (California):** Influenced by hybridization with *Delphinium cardinale*.
3. **Germany:** Developed as a cultivar by the Benary Seed Company.
**In short:** The plant has a complex origin, most likely drawing traits from European and North American Delphinium species, but developed in Germany. The “Pacific” moniker heavily suggests the influence of breeding programs focused on North American species, particularly those from the Pacific coast.