About
Compact, clump-forming perennial to 50cm in height, with palmately divided mid-green leaves. From early summer then over a long period, produces upright spires about 25cm tall, of well-filled, purple-blue flowers, with some white bicolors.
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
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
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 light and slightly acid, well-drained or sandy soil in full sun or light shade. Ideal for container cultivation. See lupin cultivation This plant was included in the RHS Lupinus (lupin) trial 2024-2025
PruningDeadhead to encourage a second flush of flowers
PropagationPropagate by seed in early to mid-spring or by basal stem cuttings in mid to late spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to lupin aphid, slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to lupin anthracnose, Powdery mildews and a virus