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Lupinus arboreus

tree lupin

A fast-growing medium-sized evergreen shrub with palmate grey-green leaves composed of leaflets, silky-hairy beneath, and fragrant, yellow, or rarely blue, flowers in erect racemes to 30cm in length in late spring and summer

Other common names
yellow bush lupine

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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Yellow Green Grey Silver
Summer Yellow Green Grey Silver
Autumn Green Grey Silver
Winter Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Fabaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. TOXIC to pets if eaten (dogs, cats, rabbits, tortoises) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

Lupinus can be annuals, perennials or shrubs, with palmate leaves and showy terminal racemes of pea-like flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
W USA

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained, sandy soil; best in full sun but can be grown in partial shade. Ideal for coastal situations in southern or mild counties where it can be grown in exposed situations but is likely to need shelter in colder areas with prolonged heavy frost

Propagation

Propagate by seed or basal cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Cut flowers
Pruning

No pruning generally required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and lupin aphid

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews, rots, a leaf spot and a virus

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