Lupinus Hybrid Cultivars
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LUPIN, LUPINE
Family: Fabaceae
Pronounced: loo-PY-nus
GROWING GUIDE
Geographical Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Perennial.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: A1-A3, 1-7, 14-17.
USDA zones: 4 - 7.
Heat zones: 8-1.
Mature size:
Height: 4-5 feet (1.3-1.5 m).
Width: 2 feet (60 cm).
Flowering period:
Late spring to early summer.
Flowering attributes:
Red, white, blue, pink, yellow or purple pea-like flower on long racemes.
Leaf attributes:
Deep green, palmate leaves.
Growth habit:
Clump-forming.
Light:
Full sun or partial shade.
Soil:
Humus rich, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soil.
Feeding:
Side dress with compost or manure in spring. Fertilize monthly spring through early summer with a complete organic fertilizer.
Propagation Methods:
Soak seed over night or chip the seeds and plant in containers. Keep temperatures at 55-65° (13-18°C) until germination within 15-60 days. | Basal cuttings in mid spring.
Pests or Diseases:
Susceptible to powdery mildew, so good air circulation is necessary. Protect plants from slugs and snails.
Rainy Side Notes
Around the 1890s, the first hybrid cultivars were hybridized. George Russell developed many hybrids between 1911 and 1937 and these were called Russell lupines. Many new cultivars now are still considered Russell lupines.
Lupines are short-lived perennials so it is best to start new seed every few years to replace older plants as they die out. The flowers are excellent fresh. Deadheading before the plant sets seed helps prolong the plant's life. After flowering is finished, cut plants down to new growth at the base of the plant. It may rebloom later in the summer.
Lupines prefer our maritime climate with cool summer evenings. As with others in the legume family, Fabaceae, the plants set nitrogen into the soil. The leaves, flowers, seeds and pods are poisonous, so take care with small children or pets in the garden.Plant in large drifts for spectacular effects, as Jocelyn Horder does in her Poulsbo, Washington garden shown in the photo above.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in the garden of Jocelyn Horder.
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