About
Lupinus arboreus, the tree lupin, is a fast-growing, medium-sized, semi-evergreen shrub to 1.5�2 m with palmate, grey-green leaves composed of six to twelve leaflets, silky-hairy beneath. Perfumed, yellow � occasionally blue or bicoloured � pea-like flowers in erect racemes to 30 cm long are produced abundantly from late spring through summer. An ornamental and fast-maturing shrub for a sunny, well-drained border.
About the genus
Lupinus, the lupins, are annuals, perennials or shrubs with palmate leaves divided into several leaflets and showy terminal racemes of pea-like flowers in a wide range of colours. Popular and ornamental plants for sunny, well-drained borders.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow
Native toW USA
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. TOXIC to pets if eaten (dogs, cats, rabbits, tortoises) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained, sandy soil; best in full sun but can be grown in partial shade. Ideal for coastal situations in southern or mild counties where it can be grown in exposed situations but is likely to need shelter in colder areas with prolonged heavy frost
PruningNo pruning generally required
PropagationPropagate by seed or basal cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and lupin aphid
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, rots, a leaf spot and a virus