Lupine is an ornamental short-lived perennial of the papilionaceae family that grows brilliant colors. This plant is a favorite of many gardeners. Lupine plants have stiff, erect flower spikes of 1-4 ft( 30-120cm) that emerge from horizontal foliage. Flowers are similar to those of peas or sweet peas, and grow in large, crowded racemes of deep blue, purple, yellow, pink or white. Found growing wild throughout most of the northern United States and southern Canada.

Ideal Site- Lupine prefers an open sunny to partial shade and grows best in cool moist soil. It can tolerate sandy drier soils but will not survive in dense clay soils. Prior to planting loosen the soil if compacted. Apply a low fertility soil improver along with a general-purpose organic fertilizer.

Cultivation- Lupine can be grown from seeds, cuttings or divisions. If growing from seed, germination is greatly increased by a 7-day cold treatment. Place seeds and slightly damp paper towels in a plastic bag and store in the refrigerator. Another method would be to chip seed or soak in warm water for a 24-hour period. Treated seeds can be directly sown into a seedbed in spring or summer until the beginning of August. Untreated seeds can be sown outdoors September-November.

Note: Lupine cannot be transplanted, as the long tap root is delicate and if damaged, the plant will fail.
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Plant Care- Water during dry periods. Treat the soil once a month with an all purpose organic fertilizer to help promote large blooms. Pinch-off spent flowers to promote a longer blooming period.

Saving Seed: Once pods are formed and mature, pick off and place on a tray in a cool dry place. Ripe seedpods naturally explode. When the seedpods begin to turn yellow and the seeds "rattle" inside, they are ripe.

Problems- Lupine are generally problem free but can occasionally be affected by aphids.

Lupine make a beautiful addition to any garden and are easy to grow.