Lupinus perennis

Also Known As

Sundial Lupine

Plant type

perennial

size

H: 3'
W: 3'

planting zones

3a-10b

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Lupinus perennis plant details

Lupinus perennis is a broadleaf deciduous perennial with green foliage. In spring and summer blue and purple flowers emerge. Features glossy texture. Attracts butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun and regular water. Does well in rich and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Lupinus perennis

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: fabaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 3 FT wide, 3 FT tall
Flowers: blue and purple blooms in spring and summer
Uses: border plant, rock garden

GROWING CONDITIONS for Lupinus perennis

USDA Zones: 3a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular
Resistant to: deer
Soil needs: rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Lupines bloom on majestic spikes from the bottom up. The bloom spikes rise up from palm-like foliage.

By: Maples N More Nursery

Host plant for Karner Blue Butterfly. Lupine (Lupinus perennis) is the only known food plant for caterpillars of the Karner Blue Butterfly, a federally-endangered species native to the Great Lakes region. Unmistakable spires of blue flowers are a spring favorite! This Grows in dry sandy soils where most other plants would perish. Will not grow in loam or clay. Hardy to Zones 3 - 8.

By: Prairie Nursery

A Lupine to love! Here in the Bay Area with our warm, wet Winters, Lupines are often such a disappointment. Not this wonderful species, which is native to the eastern half of the U.S. Blooming in its first year, it will grow to 3’ tall by the second year, forming a dense luxurious mound of lovely palm-like foliage. Starting in Spring, it bears a multitude of 8”+ spikes of stunning, light blue to rich purple blue flowers held upright above the foliage. We give it rich soil & a good layer of compost in late Winter & watch it explode back into growth. Attractive to butterflies & makes a nice cut flower. In coastal CA, rich soil is best.