Lupine, Perennial (lb)

Perennial Lupine (Lupinus perennis) is an open-pollinated perennial with blue flowers that bloom in summer and return each year. A member of the pea family, it fixes atmospheric nitrogen into the soil. Pre-soaking the seed aids germination. Deer resistant and pollinator-friendly, this 1 lb size covers approximately 4,000 sq ft if broadcast.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Lupinus perennis
• Type: Open-pollinated perennial
• Days to germinate: 15 to 20 days
• Sun: Partial sun
• Planting depth: 1/8 inch
• Height at maturity: 2 to 3 feet
• USDA zones: 3 to 9
• Seeding rate: 1 lb per 4,000 sq ft (about 22,680 seeds per pack)

Best for

• Larger perennial borders and meadows
• Pollinator gardens that draw hummingbirds and butterflies
• Deer-resistant plantings
• Nitrogen-fixing soil improvement
• Naturalized, returning color year after year

How to grow

Plant 1/8 inch deep in fall in slightly acidic, well-drained soil; pre-soak the seed to aid germination, which takes 15 to 20 days. Grow in partial sun with moderate water and thin to 1 foot apart once plants reach about 3 inches tall. Native to the Eastern US, plants reach 2 to 3 feet, blooming spring into summer and returning each year.

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