Lupin Red Shades

Lupinus ‘Red Shades’

Why Buy Me?

• Bold spires of rich red and crimson flowers
• Loved by bees and other pollinators
• Adds height, colour, and structure to borders

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun to partial shade. Thrives in a sunny position with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for the best flowering display. Light shade is tolerated, particularly in warmer climates.

Soil:
Moist, fertile, well-drained soil. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils enriched with organic matter. Avoid heavy, poorly drained soils, which can lead to root and crown rot. Lupins perform poorly in strongly alkaline conditions.

Exposure:
Best grown in a sheltered or moderately exposed location where tall flower spikes are protected from strong winds. Fully hardy in most temperate climates.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Once established, plants can withstand short dry periods, but consistent moisture encourages stronger growth and a longer flowering season.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in spring or autumn when temperatures are cool and soil moisture is adequate. Lupins produce deep taproots and establish best when planted young.

Spacing:
Space 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart. Plants typically reach 75–100 cm (30–40 inches) in height with a spread of 45–60 cm (18–24 inches), creating impressive vertical accents within borders.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly during establishment and during prolonged dry weather. Lupins generally require minimal feeding; excessive fertiliser, especially high-nitrogen products, may encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers. A spring application of compost is usually sufficient.

Mulching & Pruning:
Apply mulch in spring to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Remove spent flower spikes promptly to encourage a possible second flush of blooms. Cut flowering stems back to the base after blooming and remove old foliage in autumn or early spring.

Propagation:
Propagate by seed, basal cuttings taken in spring, or division of young plants. Seed-grown plants may show some variation in flower colour and vigour.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Distinctive clumps of attractive palmate green foliage emerge, adding texture and interest to borders before flowering begins.

Summer:
From late spring to midsummer (May to July), tall flower spikes packed with rich red, crimson, and ruby-toned blooms rise above the foliage. The dramatic flowers create a vibrant focal point and attract numerous pollinators.

Autumn:
Foliage continues to provide structure and texture after flowering. Plants gradually slow growth as temperatures cool.

Winter:
Herbaceous perennial that dies back during winter. Remove old foliage before fresh growth emerges in spring.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Highly attractive to bees, bumblebees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinating insects. The nectar-rich flowers provide an important food source throughout the flowering season.

Garden Use:
Perfect for cottage gardens, wildlife gardens, mixed herbaceous borders, and traditional perennial planting schemes. The bold flower spikes bring strong vertical interest and vibrant colour to summer displays.

Companion Plants:
Combines beautifully with Roses, Delphiniums, Foxgloves, Salvia, Geums, Geraniums, Peonies, and ornamental grasses. The rich red flowers create striking contrasts with blue, purple, white, and silver-leaved companions.

Transform your home and garden with Lupinus ‘Red Shades’, a spectacular perennial that produces eye-catching red flower spikes and supports pollinators throughout the summer. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or visit your local Thompson's Branch to see it up close and receive personalised gardening advice.