Types of Lupines

• The number of plants that are included in the lupine category is vast. Some varieties of lupine are native to the United States and can be found growing throughout the East and even into the West. Other types are garden hybrid varieties that have been created for height or color. The Lupinus texensis is a short variety with purple color and white markings. Lupinus succulentus, a native of California and the West, can grow to 4 feet tall and is the most water-tolerant of lupines, according to the Texas A&M University site. Some types of lupine grow in a shrub form, like "Yellow Bush Lupine," Lupinus arboreus, that grows as a round, bushy plant up to 5 feet tall.
  
  

Planting Lupines

• Lupines prefer full sun in loose soil. They will grow in either sandy or poor soil and prefer a slightly acid soil pH. Soak lupine seeds in water for 24 hours before planting or scratch the hard surface of the seed with a knife before sowing. Seeds will germinate in 15 to 20 days. Sow outdoors in summer or fall. You can also start lupines indoors six weeks before the ground is warm enough to plant outdoors. Cover lightly with soil and pat down gently. Keep the soil moist but not wet. Ensure that the seedlings have two sets of true leaves before planting outdoors. Transplant when all danger of frost has past. Lupines are hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3 to 7.
  
  

Care of Lupines

• Lupines require only minimal maintenance to produce a wealth of flowers. Place the seedlings outdoors 18 to 24 inches apart and weed the area around the plants regularly to prevent competition from weeds. Spread mulch around the base of plants to retain water when temperatures get hot. Water weekly under normal rainfall or more frequently during drought.
  
  

Lupine Pests & Diseases

• Lupines are subject to a number of fungus diseases, like anthracnose, Rhizoctonia rot and powdery mildew. Treat with a copper sulfate fungicide according to package directions. Lupines often have problems with aphid infestations. Treat plants with insecticidal soap, available at garden centers and plant nurseries.