Westcountry Blacksmith Lupine

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

2-3 Feet

Mature Spread

2 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 9

While the Westcountry series of Lupine has several colors available, the royal purple and white bicolor lupine Blacksmith has to be one of its most dramatic colors. Deep rich purple with opposing white petals are contrasted by bright green palm-like leaves at the base of the plant. Stocky stems bear the huge blooms high above the foliage and are almost regal in their appearance. A much sought after addition to informal cottage gardens, Lupine would look spectacular in a mass planting of the same color or perhaps a variety of colors with great effect. You are going to want to give this unique perennial a try in your garden this spring.

Native to North America and hardy from South Alaska, across the top tier to Quebec and then down to middle Western states including California, Lupine grows wild in open meadows and prairies in full sun. Hardy in Zone 4-9, Westcountry Blacksmith thrives in much of the Lower 48 states with the exception of areas with the harshest winters and the hottest summers. What began hundreds of years ago as an obsession of one man to create the perfect Lupine has culminated in some really solid performers for today’s gardeners. The famous Russell Lupine is a parent of the Westcountry Lupine and we have George Russell to thank in part for this spectacular hybrid.

Westcountry Blacksmith Lupine Care

Lupines require full sun to fuel their massive flower production. In hot southern regions, some light afternoon shade is appreciated. Well draining soil and a consistent watering schedule are key to duplicating this Lupine cultivar’s parent habitat for best performance and plant health. Fertilization is rarely needed. Use some well composted mulch if you feel your soil is poor. Slightly acidic soil, pH range 5.8 to 6.2 is optimal for nutrient take up of this plant. It cannot be emphasized too much that the soil be kept consistently moist, especially in hotter summer months. A light application of a good quality mulch will help retain moisture and reduce watering needs most of the time.

Deadheading is recommended to help promote reblooming. An added plus is that you can cut the stem further down and bring the lovely color into your home for additional enjoyment in a flower arrangement. Pruning is generally not needed. Several plant diseases can be transmitted by heavy insect infestation so keep an eye out for aphids and thrips. Apply an appropriate horticultural oil or insecticidal soap at first sign of damage. If plant disease appears, cut offending stalk/foliage out and discard. There is no remedy at this point for these diseases. Prevention is key.

Westcountry Blacksmith Lupine Spacing

Space plants about 24 inches apart to allow the valuable good air circulation between plants to occur. This will aid in the prevention of plant diseases and limit any transference. Growing just 36 inches tall but spreading out 24 inches wide at maturity, Lupines are generally short lived perennials, but, given the optimal growing conditions, will readily self sow to continue the presence of this lovely perennial in your garden.