Plant field guide
Lupine
Impressive spikes of pea-like flowers in stunning color combinations. Russell Hybrids are the most popular garden varieties.
Growing requirements
- Scientific name
- Lupinus hybrida
- Sun
- full sun
- Water
- moderate
- Height
- 24 in (61 cm) – 48 in (122 cm)
- Spread
- 12 in (30 cm) – 24 in (61 cm)
- Spacing
- 18 in (46 cm)
- Hardiness zones & minimum temperature
- USDA 3–7; average annual extreme minimum from -40°F (-40.0°C). Hardiness does not predict local frost dates.
- Difficulty
- moderate
Planting & seasonal timing
Northern Hemisphere planting months: not yet verified in our database.
Northern Hemisphere pruning months: July.
For the Southern Hemisphere, these seasonal windows shift approximately six months. Check your local frost forecast, soil temperature, and species requirements; calendar months are not a guarantee of planting safety.
Prefers cool climates. Do not fertilize heavily - fixes its own nitrogen. Does not transplant well. Short-lived perennial.
Pruning
Deadhead spent flower spikes promptly to encourage side shoots. Cut back in fall after frost.
Fertilizer
None needed
Fixes its own nitrogen - avoid fertilizer
Mulch
2 inches of organic mulch.