Information on Lupine Flowers

Lupines grow in the wild and in the garden.

Lupine flowers, sometimes called Lupins, are best known as wildflowers, but they have recently been cultivated for use in flower gardens as a hardy, ornamental flower that adds beauty and color.

Identification

Lupine flowers are perennials with one-foot to two-foot spikes of flowers that resemble sweet peas. They were originally blue in color, hence the name "blue lupine," but cultivars range in color from blue to purple and can even be found in shades of red, yellow and white.

Geography

Lupine flowers are located throughout the world in the wild and as hybrid cultivars in gardens. They thrive particularly well in cool climates and are not often found in warm climates.

Habitat

Lupine flowers prefer full sun locations but need light shade in areas with hot summers. They dislike heat and humidity and grow best in zones 4 to 8, but they can be planted as annuals in hotter climates.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Growing Lupine flowers will be most successful in rich, moderately fertile soil that is moist but well-drained. They can be planted in spring from seed purchased from seed companies, but seeds taken from garden plants will not perform true to the parent plant. Starter plants at local garden and nursery centers are another option for growing Lupines.

Unique Aspects of Lupine Flowers

Lupines produce particularly showy flowers, making them a favorite plant among gardeners. They also attract butterflies so can be used in butterfly garden. It is important to remember that Lupines are a wildflower with domesticated cultivars, hence wild Lupines will not perform the same as those bred for garden uses.

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden: Lupine Flowers
• University of Florida Extension: Native Wildflowers
• Lupins.org