Introducing...
Lupins
Botanical name: Lupinus
Lupins are instantly familiar border annuals and perennials, but there are shrubby (tree) lupins too. The border plants are cottage-garden staples, with bold spires of brightly coloured flowers in summer. The shrubs are less commonly grown but have the advantage of delicately scented flowers.
Looks
Lupins produce bold, colourful spikes of pea-like flowers in early summer – from white to pinks, reds, yellows, blues and purples, and various combinations of these. These reach 90cm (3ft) tall, rising above clumps of softly hairy green leaves divided into finger-like leaflets.
Likes
Lupins are sun-lovers, so give them a warm, open, bright position. They also like well-drained or even poor soil that is slightly acidic.
Dislikes
Heavy, wet soil is not appreciated by lupins, and they dislike drought when growth begins in spring. Light shade is tolerated.
Did you know?
Lupins are great for planting in bold drifts with ornamental grasses and other tall perennials, such as bearded irises and delphiniums. They make brilliant cut flowers too.
Growing guide
How to grow lupins
All the information you'll need to grow and care for lupins in your garden.
Lupins we recommend
Lupinus 'Masterpiece'PBR
lupin 'Masterpiece'
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Lupinus 'The Governor' (Band of Nobles Series)
lupin 'The Governor'
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Lupinus 'Masterpiece'PBR
lupin 'Masterpiece'
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Lupinus 'The Governor' (Band of Nobles Series)
lupin 'The Governor'
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Useful advice
Cut flowers: growing and selection
Perennials: planting
Ornamental grasses: selection
Perennials: cutting back
Deadheading plants
Trees and shrubs: planting
Prairie planting: creation and maintenance
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.