Culture
Grow in organically rich, moderately fertile, slightly acidic, evenly moist, well-drained soils in full sun. Best flowering is in full sun, but plants appreciate some light afternoon shade in hot summer areas. Good air circulation helps combat powdery mildew. Plants grow well in the cool summers of the West coast, Pacific Northwest, northern U. S., Rocky Mountains, southern Canada and New England. Plants dislike the heat and humidity in USDA Zones 7-9 in the deep South where they may be best grown as annuals. Apply mulch around plants to help keep root zones cool. Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage additional bloom, maintain plant vigor and prevent unwanted self-seeding. Hybrid lupines may be grown from seed purchased from seed companies, but will not come true from seed in the garden. Purchase potted plants in spring or start from seed. Treating roots with a legume inoculant may improve plant performance. Propagate by seed or cuttings in early spring. Even in ideal climates and growing conditions, lupines tend to be short-lived perennials and individuals will typically live between 2-5 years.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Many of the wild lupines (species plants) do not perform particularly well as ornamentals in home gardens. On the other hand, a large number of hybrid lupines have been developed over the years specifically for use as ornamentals. These hybrids have become extremely popular short-lived perennials in cool summer climates, but do not perform well in geographic areas featuring hot summer temperatures. The Russell Hybrids are perhaps the most popular named hybrid group in commerce today. They were developed in England by Yorkshire gardener George Russell in the early 1900s. Plants typically grow to 3-4’ tall and feature huge erect spikes (racemes to 1-2’ tall) of densely-packed, sweetly scented, pea-like flowers that bloom from late spring to early/mid summer on stiff stems rising from clumps of palmately compound, grey-green leaves (each with 9-16 lance-shaped leaflets). Hybrid flower colors include shades of blue, purple, violet, yellow, pink, red, white and bicolors.
Genus name comes from the classical name. Supposed to be derived from lupus meaning a wolf because of the completely erroneous belief that these plants destroyed the fertility of the soil.
'The Governor' is a Russell Hybrid that typically grows to 2-3' tall and features upright showy racemes of fragrant bluish-purple and ivory-white flowers.
Problems
Slugs and snails may attack young plants. Powdery mildew and aphids can be troublesome to the point where cutting plants to the ground becomes a viable option. Lesser potential problems include rust, stem rot, damping off and southern blight. Taller plants may need staking or other support. Deer and rabbits tend to avoid these plants.
Uses
Excellent flower for naturalizing in large masses. Beds and borders. Cottage gardens.