About

A perennial forming a clump of palmate foliage, with long racemes of yellow flowers from early summer.

About the genus

Lupinus can be annuals, perennials or shrubs, with palmate leaves and showy terminal racemes of pea-like flowers

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden
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 moderately fertile, light, slightly acid to neutral, well-drained soils; sandy soil is ideal as rich soils encourage soft growth. Does well in full sun or partial shade, may need staking; see staking perennials for further advice This plant was included in the RHS Lupinus (lupin) trial 2024-2025
PruningDeadhead to encourage a second flush of flowers
PropagationPropagate by basal cuttings in mid spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and lupin aphid
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, rots, a leaf spot and a virus