Overview
Thermopsis montana is a perennial herb in the genus Thermopsis, part of the Fabaceae family. Thermopsis montana grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, rock gardens and naturalized areas. It is native to NW USA.
About the genus
Thermopsis is a genus of legumes, native to temperate North America and east Asia. They are herbaceous perennials and are known as goldenbanners or false-lupines.
Wikipedia contributors, "Thermopsis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Thermopsis
In the garden
Thermopsis montana is a perennial herb native to the north-western United States that offers a mid-summer display of golden-yellow blooms. The flowering period is June to July, when the plant contributes a concentrated run of colour suited to more natural planting schemes. Plant in a spot that receives full sun or partial shade; the species tolerates both sheltered and exposed locations so it can work in exposed rock gardens or more protected sunny beds. Soils should be well drained — loamy or sandy types are preferred — with a neutral to slightly acidic reaction. The plant accepts moist sites but will tolerate periods of dryness once established, making it useful where conditions vary between seasons. Use Thermopsis montana in wildlife gardens, rock gardens or naturalised areas where a summer surge of yellow will blend with grasses and other perennials. Handle with care: it is harmful if eaten, and gloves or other protective equipment are advised when lifting or dividing plants. The concentrated June–July flowering makes it particularly effective at providing a seasonal focal point along meadow edges or in loose drifts.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Thermopsis
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, loamy, sandy
- Soil pH
- neutral, slightly acidic
- Soil moisture
- moist,dry tolerant
- Exposure
- sheltered, exposed
Plant details
Thermopsis montana size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herb
- Suggested uses
- wildlife gardens, rock gardens, naturalized areas
- Native to
- NW USA
- Toxicity
- Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Thermopsis montana
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Tolerates dry conditions once established.
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
- Propagation
- Seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Thermopsis montana?
Prefers well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Tolerates dry conditions once established.
Where is the best place to plant Thermopsis montana?
Thermopsis montana prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered and exposed positions.
What soil does Thermopsis montana need?
Thermopsis montana is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including well-drained, loamy and sandy. It prefers neutral and slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist to dry tolerant.
How do I prune Thermopsis montana?
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
How do I propagate Thermopsis montana?
Seed, division.
Is Thermopsis montana toxic?
Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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