I say ‘diva’ because delphiniums are attention-grabbing, gorgeous garden stars, but also notoriously temperamental to grow and sustain. Their finicky needs demand high maintenance and a considerable tolerance for unreliability. Since they are arguably one of the most beautiful perennials on the planet, we “delph” lovers grudgingly carry their water (literally!) in hopes of a spectacular show. If you think you’d like to try growing a few, read on.