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Lupins or lupines are the members of the genus Lupinus in the legume family (Fabaceae). The genus comprises between 200 and 600 species, with native varieties found through out much of the country.
Like most members of their family, lupins can transform nitrogen from the atmosphere into ammonia via a rhizobium-root nodule symbiosis, fertilizing the soil for other plants, this adaption allows lupins to be tolerant of infertile soils and capable of pioneering change in barren and poor quality soils.
PLANTING: Set plants 15 to 18 inches apart. Choose a location in full sun or, especially where the summers are very hot, light shade, and where the soil is well-drained but not too fertile. Lupines are best when planted in groups.
MAINTENANCE: Water during periods of drought. In the southern-most zones, we recommend summer mulch. Remove spent flowers before they set seed. Cutting back flowering stems after blooming will also encourage a second bloom.
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