Description
Lupinus perennis, or simply Lupine, is a well-known and loved perennial wild flower. They bring interest and beauty to any naturalized landscape setting, and they fixate nitrogen for the soil. They’re beneficial in many ways! Lupines have very attractive, shrub-like deep green foliage and tall erect stems that tower above the foliage. Lupine is an early summer bloomer and very attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. They produce a taproot, so after the first year of getting established, they are fairly drought tolerant and need water only during periods of prolonged drought. Many gardeners recommend soaking the seed in water for 24 hours before planting to soften the seed coat. Start the seeds indoors 6 – 8 weeks before the end of frost season. Press the seed into the soil and very lightly cover with soil. Keep the seed moist continuously. With a temperature of 68F, germination is usually within 14 days. Transplant outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Space the plants 18 – 24 inches apart. For areas with a long growing season, the seed can be started directly outdoors in a prepared seedbed after danger of frost as passed. Grow in full sun to partial shade and in well-drained soil. Lupine is usually resistant to deer.
