Lupine – Russell Blue/Purple

The Russell Lupine is a show-stopping garden perennial known for its tall, upright spikes of vivid blue-purple flowers that rise above lush, palm-shaped green foliage. Blooming from late spring into early summer, these plants add a striking vertical accent and a burst of color to perennial borders, cottage gardens, and wildflower plantings. Their elegant spires make excellent cut flowers and draw plenty of attention from hummingbirds, butterflies, and native bees.

Developed from the western species Lupinus polyphyllus, the Russell Hybrids were first bred in England by George Russell in the early 20th century to create a wider range of flower colors and stronger garden performance. Though not native to North America, they have become beloved ornamental favorites for their brilliant blooms and graceful form.

Russell Lupine thrives in full sun with moist but well-drained soil, though it will tolerate partial shade in hotter climates. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil conditions and benefits from cooler roots—mulching around the base helps maintain even soil moisture. For best results, plant seeds directly outdoors where they are to grow, as lupines dislike transplanting due to their long taproot. Nicking or soaking the seeds overnight before planting helps speed germination.

After flowering, remove spent spikes to encourage a longer bloom season and maintain a tidy look. In ideal conditions, Russell Lupine may reseed modestly, providing naturalized drifts of color year after year. While technically perennial, plants often behave as short-lived perennials, lasting two to five years depending on climate and soil conditions.

Planting Tip: Choose a sunny, well-drained location, and direct-sow seeds in early spring or fall. Allow young plants time to establish, and protect them from excessive summer heat if growing in warmer zones. Expect a dazzling display of blue-purple blossoms that bring life, texture, and pollinator activity to your garden season after season.

*Most perennials will not bloom the first year they are planted.  They establish a plant the first year and then bloom the second and every year after that.  Annuals will give you color the first year you plant them and then can reseed themselves if they like where they are growing.   This is why perennials tend to be more expensive.  It takes twice as long to get seed off of the plant than an annual when initially planting.

The broadcast rate for seeding is 70 – 87.5 pounds per acre.

The seed drill rate for seeding in rows is 35 pounds per acre.