About
A suckering herbaceous perennial, up to 40cm in height, with narrow green foliage and dense spikes of lupin or pea-like bright yellow flowers which appear from May to June.
About the genus
Thermopsis are lupin-like rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with erect stems, leaves with three leaflets, and yellow or purple flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitSuckering
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Prairie planting
Native toN America
ToxicityHarmful 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
CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade; cut down faded flower spikes to just above ground level; has the potential to become a nuisance if left unchecked. Dig out roots if the plant spreads into unwanted areas
PruningNo pruning required, but if the faded flower spikes are cut down to just above ground level there may be a second flush of flowering in early autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed or division in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free