The Governor Lupine

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

2-3 Feet

Mature Spread

1 Foot

Growing Zones

4 to 8

Lupinus The Governor is a robust perennial lupine with striking flowers and foliage. The indigo and white clusters of pea-like flowers are held on tall, sturdy wands in spring. The flowers persist through June and attract hummingbirds and bees. The gray-green palmate foliage forms a dense mound that spreads to 18 inches. This is the queen of the perennial garden, with blooms that will outshine all others and provide wonderful fragrant cut flowers.

The Governor is a perennial that will die back over the winter. It is cold hardy to zone 4 and dislikes hot, humid climates. It is deer and rabbit resistant, but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and aphids. Give plants plenty of room for good air circulation and spray off aphids with a strong blast of water. Lupines look fabulous placed in the middle of flower beds where their flower spikes will steal the show. They also look amazing planted in large groups, which will attract all kinds of pollinators and make a big design statement.

The Governor Lupine Care

This lupine grows well in full sun to part shade and appreciates some shade from hot afternoon sun. It prefers moist, well-drained, sandy soil that is rich in nutrients. It grows well in neutral to slightly acidic soil. Water ‘The Governor’ regularly and deeply during the summer, making sure the soil never dries out. To keep the roots cool and protected, apply a thick layer of mulch around the lupine’s root zone. 

Cut back the flower spike after blooming to extend the bloom time and discourage reseeding. Tattered foliage can also be cut back at this time to promote new growth. 

The Governor Lupine Spacing

Space these plants approximately 18 - 24 inches apart to allow proper air circulation. They also can be grown in containers that are at least 16 inches in diameter. Repot each spring with fresh soil in a larger container.