About
Lupinus nootkatensis, the Nootka lupin, is a strong, clump-forming perennial to around 1 m with velvety palmate leaves divided into 6�8 narrow leaflets. Whorls of lightly scented, pea-like flowers � usually blue and white but sometimes pink, purple or pure white � are borne on densely hairy, upright stems in early summer, followed by hairy green seedpods. A robust and rewarding lupin for a sunny, well-drained border or wild garden.
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
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Prairie planting, Wildflower meadow
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 light, ideally slightly acidic, well-drained soil in full sun. Water well in summer dry spells. See lupin cultivation
PruningDeadhead to encourage more flowers, unless seeds are required
PropagationPropagate by seed. Will self-seed and may spread rapidly in ideal conditions
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to lupin aphid, slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, lupin anthracnose and virus diseases