Admittedly, some flowers are more trouble than others, and require that extra bit of care for a truly outstanding show. Delphiniums tend to fall into that category because of their vulnerability to winds and certain pests, but fear not, breeders have come out with the Aurora series. 'Aurora Purple' delphinium has much sturdier stems (though they still do better with staking) with densely packed, semi-double flower spires, growing three to four feet tall. Excellent as cut flowers, this serves double-duty, as cutting flower spikes down to the basal leaves will encourage repeat blooming in the fall. Delphiniums do best in sunny locations to deter powdery mildew, and benefit from staking to avoid wind damage.