Lupinus perennis
Zones 3-8
5 seeds
Ontario Native!
The dense spires of deep blue flowers of Wild Lupine are a favourite in late spring and early summer.
The palm-shaped leaves that surround are also very attractive making Lupinus perennis a great choice for gardens or restorations with dry to sandy soils.
Caterpillars of the endangered Karner Blue butterfly feed exclusively on Lupinus perennis and Wild Lupine is also a host plant for the Frosted Elfin and the Eastern Persius Duskywing butterflies.
After it flowers, when its seeds are ripe, the seedpods explode scattering the seeds, which songbirds love to feed on.
Plant type: perennial
Height: 1' - 2'
Site: full sun to part shade
Plant spacing: 30 cm (1 foot)
Scarify seed by rubbing between two sheets of sandpaper to scrape seed coat or soaking in water for 24 hours prior to sowing.
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost or lupins work equally well direct sown in early spring when some risk of frost is still possible.
Can be direct sown in autumn where winters are mild.
Maintain a coolish soil temperature of 12-18°C (55-65°F).
Seeds should germinate in 14-60 days. Be patient.
Space or thin plants to 30-60cm (12-24") apart to allow for natural spread.
After flowering, cut down the stems to the base of the plant.
