While the lupine flower, also called the bluebonnet, looks like a wildflower, it is actually a fast-growing legume in the pea family. It has a tall, showy spire of purple, blue, white, or yellow flowers this time of year. You can expect flowers for about three months, from spring to midsummer. Lupine plants don’t spread on their own, but flower pods can spread up to a dozen seeds.
Lupine is a flower that can be grown as an annual or a perennial. It does best in northern climates with cooler summers and needs full sunlight for at least six hours a day, weekly watering, and soil that is slightly acidic. These brilliant flowers are also deer-resistant and beneficial to pollinators like bees and butterflies. Keep in mind that the plant is toxic to both humans and animals.
The National Park Service says that wild lupine flower is an invasive plant that can make new species hard to find. Additionally, because its seeds are toxic, it can threaten herbivores that are native to the area.
With their tall colorful flower spikes, lupines are an eye-catching addition to any garden. While typically grown in flower beds lupines can also thrive when planted in pots and containers. Their relatively small root systems make them suitable candidates for container growing. With proper care and attention, you can have vibrant lupine flowers growing happily on your patio, deck, or balcony.
Choosing the Right Lupine Varieties for Containers
When selecting lupine varieties to grow in pots, smaller, more compact types are best. Look for dwarf or mini lupine series that reach heights around 1-2 feet tall at maturity. Some good options include:
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Mini Gallery Series – An assortment of colors including red, pink, white, yellow, and blue. Grows 12-18 inches tall.
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Dwarf Russell Hybrids – Dense flower spikes in a mix of bicolors. Reach about 16 inches tall.
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Popsicle Series – A new dwarf lupine that produces multicolored flower towers on 12 inch stems.
Larger lupine varieties can work but will require bigger pots at least 18-24 inches wide. Go for types labeled “pot lupines” when available.
Choosing the Right Pot or Container
When selecting a container for lupines, bigger is generally better. This allows adequate room for root development. Recommended pot sizes:
- Dwarf lupines – 12-14 inch diameter pot
- Larger lupines – 18-24 inch diameter pot
- Mixes and multi-plantings – At least 24 inch diameter
The pot should have drainage holes and be made from a durable weather-resistant material like plastic resin, ceramic, or terra cotta. Darker colors absorb heat, helping keep roots warmer in cool weather.
Best Soil for Potted Lupines
Lupines need a lightweight, fast-draining soil mix in containers. A general purpose potting mix amended with perlite or vermiculite for extra drainage works perfectly. To prepare the best potting mix:
- Use a basic potting soil as the base
- Add 20-30% perlite or vermiculite to increase drainage
- Incorporate a slow-release flower fertilizer as directed on package
- Adjust pH to 6.0-7.0 if needed
Before filling pots, place crocks, pebbles, or packing peanuts in the bottom 1-2 inches for enhanced drainage.
Caring for Lupines Growing in Pots
Caring for container lupines is similar to caring for them in garden beds, but their needs are a bit more exacting since roots have limited soil. Follow these tips for success:
Watering
- Check soil moisture daily. Water when top 1-2 inches become dry.
- Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom holes.
- Avoid waterlogged soil that can cause root rot.
Fertilizing
- Use a bloom-boosting fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during growing season.
- Switch to a lower nitrogen formula when buds appear to promote blooms.
- Top dress with compost or slow-release granules in spring and midsummer.
Sunlight
- Place pots in full sun to part sun locations. At least 6 hours of sun per day.
- Rotate pots occasionally for even sunlight exposure.
Overwintering
- Move to a sheltered spot away from cold winds and frost.
- Insulate roots by wrapping pots in burlap, straw, or foam wraps.
- Keep soil evenly moist but not wet during winter months.
With the right conditions and care, lupines will reward you with their signature spires of vibrant flowers even when grown in the confined space of containers. Give them a try on your patio or deck this season! The wide range of colors and sizes means there is a lupine perfect for any garden.
Light
Lupines grow and bloom best when they get full sun, or at least 6 hours of direct sunlight most days. They can grow in partial shade, but their flowering will be diminished. However, some afternoon shade is ideal in hot climates.
Planting
If you choose to grow lupine flowers from seedlings, dig holes 1 to 1. 5 feet deep, and space small lupine plants about 1 foot apart. Space larger plants 2 to 3 feet apart. Ideally, lupine plants are planted outdoors in cooler temperatures, either early spring or fall. Add mulch, but avoid fertilizer.
Growing and Caring for Lupins in Containers
FAQ
Do lupins do well in pots?
How do you care for potted lupines?
Do lupines like sun or shade?
Can lupine grow in pots?
Yes, lupine can grow in pots. Lupines are hardy plants, and they can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and soil conditions. Lupines need plenty of sunlight, and they require well-drained soil. It is important to water regularly and fertilize occasionally.
Do lupins need a large pot?
1. Provide a Large and Wide Pot/Container to Plant Lupins Mature lupins are tall plants, some towering over 5 feet high. However, the reason why you need a large pot is primarily to accommodate their developing deep roots. If these were forced to grow in shallow and small vessels, the plant would eventually get rootbound and have growth problems.
Can lupines grow in heavy soil?
Your goal is to ensure a free-draining and sandy soil to allow the excess water to drain properly. Heavy and compact soils aren’t a good choice for lupines because these plants develop long roots that should easily reach down into the soil. If the soil in your garden doesn’t meet these requirements, you have two options.
How do you grow a Lupin in a pot?
During the growing season, deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming. Alternatively, cutting the plant back to half after its first bloom will encourage new growth as well. Use deep, well-draining containers to pot lupines. Its taproots are long and need room to grow. Use lightweight soil to allow for good drainage.
