Overview
Lupinus polyphyllus is a perennial herbaceous in the genus Lupinus, part of the Q44448 family. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Lupinus polyphyllus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Western N America.
About
Lupinus polyphyllus is a perennial herbaceous plant that typically reaches about 1.5 m. It favours full sun and performs best in moist but well-drained soils from sandy to clay. Flowering takes place from June to August. All parts are harmful if eaten, so wear gloves and take care around pets.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lupinus polyphyllus
About the genus
Lupinus, commonly known as lupin, lupine, or regionally bluebonnet, is a genus of plants in the legume family Fabaceae. The genus includes over 199 species, with centres of diversity in North and South America. Smaller centres occur in North Africa and the Mediterranean.
Wikipedia contributors, "Lupinus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lupinus
In the garden
Lupinus polyphyllus is a herbaceous perennial from western North America that produces upright growth to roughly 1.5 m and flowers in the UK from June to August. It is grown for its seasonally conspicuous blooms and the vertical presence it gives to herbaceous planting. Give it a sunny location and a soil that remains moist but drains freely; it tolerates a range of soil textures from sandy through loamy to clay provided the crown is not waterlogged. In UK hardiness terms it is H7, meaning it is fully hardy and generally does not need winter protection in exposed gardens. The USDA range of 5–9 provides a further guide for climates elsewhere. Use Lupinus polyphyllus where a tall perennial will fit — it suits larger mixed borders and any site where a full-sun plant with seasonal flower display is wanted. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling, because all parts are harmful if eaten and the plant is toxic to pets including dogs, cats, rabbits and tortoises; consult local guidance such as the HTA list for further contact details if ingestion occurs. Keep animals away from foliage and discarded stems to reduce risk.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Lupinus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Lupinus polyphyllus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial herbaceous
- Height
- 1.5 m
- Native to
- Western N America
- Toxicity
- Harmful 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
Pruning and caring for Lupinus polyphyllus
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Lupinus polyphyllus?
Lupinus polyphyllus prefers full sun.
What soil does Lupinus polyphyllus need?
Lupinus polyphyllus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Lupinus polyphyllus grow?
Lupinus polyphyllus reaches a height of 1.5 m.
Is Lupinus polyphyllus hardy in the UK?
Lupinus polyphyllus has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Lupinus polyphyllus?
Seed, Division.
Is Lupinus polyphyllus toxic?
Harmful 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.
More in the Lupinus genus
- Lupinus albifronssilver lupine
- Lupinus albifrons var. douglasiiSilver Lupine
- Lupinus albus 'Celina'PBR
- Lupinus angustifolius 'Haagena'
- Lupinus arboreustree lupin
- Lupinus arboreus 'Mauve Queen'
- Lupinus argenteus
- Lupinus breweri
