Gallery Blue
Compact lupin with neat flower spikes, useful for smaller gardens and containers.
When to plant Lupins in Stirling
Lupinus spp.
Hardy perennial with tall flower spikes that suits borders in most parts of the UK. Give it full sun and well-drained soil, and avoid heavy, waterlogged ground.
90 cm · Full Sun · Moderate Water
Calibrated to Stirling · average last frost around 1 May
| Activity | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant out | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
Growing guide
What to do through the growing season
01
Plant Out
17 Mar to 1 MayPlant into prepared soil around 17th March - 1st May, setting the crown at the same level it was growing before. Water in thoroughly straight away, then keep the soil just moist while the roots settle.
02
Water Through Establishment
17 Mar to 30 Jul Dates as each sowing reaches this stageFrom 17th March, water newly planted lupins during dry spells in their first season. Aim for a deep soak rather than frequent light watering, and avoid leaving the soil sodden.
03
Deadhead Spent Spikes
15 Jun to 17 OctRemove faded flower spikes from 15th June to keep the display going and stop the plant putting energy into seed. If you leave some spikes to ripen, collect seed from the most reliable plants only.
04
Cut Back Old Stems
30 Jul to 29 AugAfter the main flowering flush, cut the flowered stems down to the basal growth from 30th July. Leave the new leafy shoots at the base, because that keeps the plant strong for next year.
05
Tidy For Winter
3 Oct to 16 NovFrom 3rd October, remove any dead foliage and clear away fallen debris around the crown. Leave the crown intact and do not cut hard into the base, as established plants need that growing point protected.
Suggested varieties
Popular varieties of Lupin to consider
The Chatelaine
Classic pink and white flower spikes on a tall, sturdy plant.
Russell Hybrid Mix
Traditional mixed colours with good border presence and reliable flowering.
Noble Maiden
Pure white flower spikes that work well in mixed perennial borders.
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