Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.
The Governor
Flower
FlowerLupinus polyphyllus
- Partial sun
- Zones 4–9
- 150 days to maturity
- Flowers
- 18" spacing
- High water
- Perennial
Overview
Part of the Russell Hybrids 'Band of Nobles' series. The Governor has sweetly scented bicolor blooms in blue-purple with white. Plants produce multiple blooms with stiff, straight stems. In our trials, these first-year flowering plants bloomed in early July in the first year and about a month earlier (early June) from well-established plants in the second season of growing. Bloom quality and productivity were better in the second season, although all plants did produce flowers in the first season. Performs best where summers are cool. Attracts and provides a food source for bees and hummingbirds. 1-2' blooms/spikes are densely covered with ½" pea-like flowers. Lupine is typically resistant to deer and rabbits. Perennial in Zones 4-8.
Planting
Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost, or direct sow after last frost. Cold stratification beneficial for outdoor seeds.
Growing
Sun: partial. Water: high. Soil: Well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral. Space plants 18" apart. Germination: 7-14 days.