This summer, Roxana Sotelo Laureano joined OLWC as our 2025 intern, focusing on Delphinium leucophaeum, commonly known as White Rock Larkspur. This rare Oregon endemic is known for its delicate white to pale lavender flowers and its preference for well-drained, rocky soils in the Willamette Valley (Marshall, 2025; Oregon Department of Agriculture, 2025).

D. leucophaeum belongs to the Delphinium genus, which has a rich evolutionary history marked by specialized flower morphology and habitat preferences (Blanché i Vergés, 2012). White Rock Larkspur thrives on basaltic soils, which provide excellent drainage, mineral content, and slope stability—critical factors for healthy growth (Beeson et al., 1989; Conceição et al., 2022; Liu et al., 2021).

Delphinium leuchopaheum in its pre-bloom stage.

During her internship, Roxana conducted surveys to document plant population size, health, and habitat conditions. Her findings highlighted the species’ sensitivity to habitat disturbance, invasive plants, and soil changes. She also confirmed that robust populations are most often found in areas with stable slopes and basalt-rich soils, underscoring the importance of soil and hydrological conditions for conservation.

This project not only advances our understanding of White Rock Larkspur but also demonstrates the value of hands-on, student-led conservation work. Roxana’s efforts provide essential data that will guide future restoration and protection strategies for this delicate species, ensuring that it continues to thrive in its native grassland ecosystems.