Lupine 'Red Shades' - Just what the Pollinators Ordered!
Lupine ‘Red Shades’ (Lupinus polyphyllus) brings upright spires of vibrant red to raspberry-toned blooms that create striking vertical accents in late spring and early summer. This cultivar offers the classic appeal of perennial lupine but with a warmer, richer color range that stands out in mixed borders. Its palmate foliage forms tidy mounds that remain attractive long after flowering, adding texture through the season. Known for thriving in cooler climates and well-drained soil, lupine supports pollinators while offering dependable seasonal color.
Applications in the Garden
Excellent for cottage gardens and perennial borders
Adds height and structure to mixed plantings
Strong choice for pollinator-friendly landscapes
Works well in naturalized meadows with other early summer bloomers
Provides eye-catching color in cut flower arrangements
Pairs nicely with foxglove, columbine, delphinium, and ornamental grasses
Planting Tips - Lupine
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Plant in full sun to light shade for strong flowering
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Choose well-drained soil and avoid heat-reflective sites that stress plants
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Space plants 12–18 inches apart to accommodate upright growth
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Water consistently during establishment, keeping soil lightly moist
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Avoid heavy clay or compacted soil; amend with compost for aeration
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Mulch lightly to maintain soil moisture, but keep it away from the crown
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Deadhead spent blooms to encourage a tidy appearance and possible rebloom
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Lupinus Polyphyllus Red Shades |
| Variety Name: | Polyphyllus Gallery Series Red Shades |
| Height: | 15″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 4-8 |
| Sun or Shade: | Full sun |
| Plant Classification: | Perennial |
| Planting Season: | Spring to Summer |
| Bloom Season: | Spring – Summer |
| Bloom Cycle: | Once or twice per season |
| Bloom Duration: | 4 weeks |
| Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Organically rich, moderately fertile, evenly moist, well-draining soils |
| Water Requirements: | Average |
Troubleshooting - Lupine
Wilting or collapse: Often due to root rot in poorly drained soil; improve drainage or relocate
Sparse blooms: Typically from too much shade or nutrient-poor soil; ensure sun and add compost
Powdery mildew: Improve airflow and avoid overhead watering
Leaf damage from slugs/snails: Apply barriers or traps, especially in damp weather
Short lifespan: Lupines can be somewhat short-lived; allow a few seedpods to mature to encourage natural reseeding
FAQ - Lupine
Q: Are lupines toxic to pets or people?
A: Yes. Lupines contain alkaloids that are toxic if ingested, particularly in large quantities. They are safe to grow ornamentally but should not be eaten by pets, livestock, or humans.
Q: Do lupines spread by seed?
A: They can self-seed modestly, especially in open soil. Removing seedpods after flowering limits spread.
Q: Can this plant be grown in warm climates?
A: Lupines prefer cooler temperatures and may struggle in areas with hot, humid summers.
Q: Will these attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the flowers provide nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators throughout their bloom period.