Lupinus Hybrids -- Lupine

Lupines are short-lived perennials producing spikes of pea like flowers. The individual florets may be of two colors giving the whole spike a two tone effect. A wide range of colors is available.

Cut the flower stalks after the first bloom to encourage formation of a second spike. The plants prefer full sun but tolerate some light shade. Lupine tolerates most soils as long as they don't contain much organic matter or are alkaline. Long taproots make transplanting difficult.

The seed germinates in 3 to 4 weeks at 65 to 70 degrees and may need scarification. Start seed in peat pots to make the transplanting as easy as possible. The plants are divided in autumn but the survival rate is poor.

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