Lupine – Russell White

The Russell Lupine is a stunning perennial known for its tall, elegant spikes of pure white flowers that rise above lush, palm-shaped green foliage. These graceful blooms bring a fresh, classic accent to garden borders and pair beautifully with colorful companions in cottage gardens or wildflower plantings. Blooming from late spring through early summer, the tall flower spikes make an excellent backdrop in mixed beds and are a favorite for cut flower arrangements.

Russell Lupine grows best in full sun but tolerates partial shade in warmer climates. It thrives in moist yet well-drained soil and prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH levels. The plants benefit from cooler soil conditions, so mulching helps retain moisture and protect the roots. Because lupines form long taproots, they don’t transplant well — for best results, sow seeds directly outdoors where they are to grow. Soaking or lightly nicking the seeds before planting helps improve germination and early growth.

Deadheading spent flowers encourages continued blooming and a tidy appearance, while the foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season. Although technically perennial, Russell Lupines often behave as short-lived perennials, lasting two to five years depending on climate and soil. Their vertical form, clean white blooms, and ability to attract hummingbirds and pollinators make them an outstanding choice for perennial borders, meadow-style gardens, and pollinator plantings.

Planting Tip: Choose a sunny, well-drained location and direct-sow seeds in early spring or fall. Avoid transplanting mature plants to protect their deep taproots. Keep soil evenly moist during establishment and enjoy elegant white flower spires that bring structure, light, and beauty to your garden year after year.

*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.

SPECIAL NOTE: Please check with your state Department of Agriculture before planting any lupine seeds to make sure they are not a species that is considered invasive or prohibited to your state. This particular species is Lupinus polyphyllus – Russell Lupine White. If you think they are becoming a problem in your area cut them before they set seed and destroy the material before they can seed more plants in the future.

**For larger quantities than listed for sale please contact us for availability and pricing.

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.