If it is a new variety, you may need to ask Norgates, or a nursery, as it will not be listed in current encyclopedias

Hi Annabel. No it's not a new variety as I see it is also sold by a couple of other nurseries in the east but not so easily aquired over here in the west. I did order a few plants last year and have lost them to damp or snails so I am keen to order seeds but need to know what I am looking for. I don't know much about delphiniums but know thay are not "Pacific Giants" types as they are much looser flowering. Hope someone out there knows. They are a vibrant electric blue and described as perennials. They were longer flowering than Pacific Giants. thanks Rose

Denis Norgate told me once that it was his biggest seller. 1000's every year for a long time.

It could be delphinium chinensis

Thank you all for the help regarding the pursuit of this elusive delphinium. I bet it's Norgates biggest seller because (oh woe is me) they have sold out. I can't bear the thought of not having them this year as they are truly magnificent.

I have looked up Delphinium chinensis and yes the colour is right but their height descriptions seem to range from 12" to 18". I thought mine were around a metre. I have been wondering if they are a cross between elatum and grangiflorum (whatever that means). I just want some!!! Anyway, my trusty Harpyplants in the states has some chinensis seeds so I will give them a go but do I have the patience.
thanks again
Rose