Wild Lupine Sundial Lupine Lupinus perennis 100 Seeds USA Company

Lupinus perennis, commonly known as the wild lupine or sundial lupine, is a flowering plant native to North America. Here's some additional information about this species:

Description: Wild lupine is a herbaceous perennial plant that typically grows up to 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) tall. It features palmately compound leaves with 7 to 11 leaflets, arranged in a spiral along the stem. The flowers are pea-like, arranged in erect racemes, and come in various shades of blue, violet, pink, or white. The bloom time is typically in late spring to early summer.

Habitat: Lupinus perennis is commonly found in dry open woods, prairies, meadows, savannas, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soils and is often found in sandy or gravelly areas.

Ecological Importance: Wild lupine serves as a host plant for the larvae of several butterfly species, including the endangered Karner blue butterfly (Plebejus melissa samuelis) in certain regions. The plant's relationship with these butterflies is crucial for their survival, as the larvae feed exclusively on lupine leaves. Conservation efforts for wild lupine habitats are therefore important for the preservation of these butterfly populations.

Cultural Significance: Wild lupine has been historically used by various indigenous tribes for medicinal purposes, such as treating skin conditions, respiratory ailments, and digestive issues. Additionally, some tribes utilized parts of the plant for food or in ceremonial practices.

Conservation: In some regions, wild lupine populations face threats due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation. Conservation efforts aimed at protecting and restoring its habitats are essential for the preservation of both the plant and the species that depend on it, such as the Karner blue butterfly. Hardy in zones 3-8.

Growing Instructions

The seeds have a period of dormancy. They can be planted outdoors in the fall or winter for spring germination or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions and to break their dormancy at any time of the year.

1. Scarify the seeds by nicking or sanding the seed coat.
2. Soak the seed in water for several hours.
3. Place the seeds in a plastic bag and seal it. Store the bag in a refrigerator for 10 days.
4. The seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half potting soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. Put the soil in a pot. Water the mixture so that it is moist but not wet.
5. Sow the seeds ¼ inch deep.
6. Water the container and leave it to drain.
7. Put the pot in a warm, sunny area.
8. Water the pot regularly so that the soil is moist but not wet. The seeds start to germinate in 1-2 weeks. Lupines have a long taproot and do not transplant well so if they are planted outdoors, they should be sown where they are to be grown in the garden.