Lupine - Purple

I have always loved Lupines and so do the pollinators. Attracts beneficial insects and birds to the garden like bumblebees, honeybees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. One of the other things I love about Lupines is the height of vibrant colour that is always a great addition to the landscape. 

 Warning: These self seed rapidly and can be invasive in some areas. One way to help prevent having to many pop up the next year, cut off seed pods and toss into garbage before they dry out and fall. Seed pods seen in last photo are at the perfect time to cut down before spreading. 

Fun Fact: In 1954 there were lupine seeds found in Yukon Territory in glacial sediments, believed to be at least 10000 years old. The seeds were germinated in 1966. Lupine seeds (when stored correctly) have an indefinite viability.

Best to direct sow, does not transplant well. 

plant from fall to spring during the cooler weather. if planting in summer, put in fridge for a week before planting. However best early spring before last frost. 

Lupines take 2 years to fully mature and go to seed. (Biannual)

Plant 1/2" deep. 

Fixes nitrogen in soil. 

Full sun

grow in lightly acidic soil. 

Can also grow in rocky areas so perfect to use in places where other things cant grow.