Lupine – Russell Mix

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Growing Russell Lupine Mix from Seed

Russell Lupine Mix (Lupinus polyphyllus hybrids) is a striking perennial lupine known for its tall flower spikes and beautiful range of colors, including shades of blue, purple, pink, red, yellow, and white. Plants can reach approximately 3–4 feet tall and provide a dramatic display in the garden from late spring into summer.

Russell Lupines are well suited to perennial borders, cottage gardens, mass plantings, cut-flower gardens, and other ornamental landscapes. Their colorful flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Russell Lupines grow best in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. They can tolerate some partial shade, particularly in warmer regions, but flowering is generally best with good sunlight. Avoid poorly drained or waterlogged locations.

Because lupines develop a strong taproot, direct sowing where the plants are to grow is recommended whenever possible. Established plants can be sensitive to root disturbance.

Lupine seed has a hard seed coat. Light scarification before planting can help improve and encourage more uniform germination. Scarification means gently scratching or nicking the outer surface of the seed so moisture can penetrate the hard seed coat.

Pacific Northwest Planting

For gardeners in the Pacific Northwest, fall is a good time to sow Russell Lupine Mix. Plant after the heat of summer has passed and temperatures have cooled.

Sow seed directly where the plants are to grow in a prepared, weed-free planting area. Cover the seed lightly with soil and keep the planting area consistently moist during germination and early establishment.

Russell Lupines prefer cooler growing conditions and consistent moisture while becoming established. Choose a location with good drainage and avoid areas that remain saturated.

Spring Planting

Russell Lupine Mix can also be planted in spring. Sow directly outdoors once soil conditions are suitable for planting.

Prepare a weed-free seed bed and sow the seed shallowly, covering lightly with soil. Keep the planting area consistently moist during germination and early growth.

Spring-planted lupines may take time to become fully established before producing their best display of flowers. Flowering time can vary depending on planting time and growing conditions.

Fall Planting

Fall is a good planting season for Russell Lupine Mix, particularly in regions with cooler growing conditions.

Sow seed directly into a prepared, weed-free seed bed after the hottest part of summer has passed. Cover the seed lightly with soil and provide moisture if fall conditions are dry.

Fall planting allows the seed to experience natural seasonal conditions before spring growth. Germination may occur over an extended period, so patience is important.

Planting in Other Regions

Russell Lupines perform best in regions with cooler growing conditions. Planting time should be based on your local climate and growing conditions.

In colder climates, fall planting or spring planting can both be successful. Spring planting can be done once the soil can be worked and conditions are suitable.

In regions with mild winters, fall planting can be a good choice after the heat of summer has passed.

In warmer climates, choose a location with some protection from intense afternoon heat and provide consistent moisture during establishment. Russell Lupines generally perform better in cooler conditions than during prolonged periods of heat.

Regardless of region, choose a well-drained planting site and provide consistent moisture during germination and establishment.

Seeding Rates

Broadcast seeding rate: 70–87.5 pounds per acre

Seed drill rate: 35 pounds per acre

Larger Quantities

For quantities larger than those currently listed for sale, please contact us for availability and pricing.

Important: Lupinus polyphyllus can become weedy or invasive in some regions. Before planting, check with your state Department of Agriculture, natural resource agency, or local extension office regarding its status in your area