West Country Lupin - Magic Lantern 1L

Magic lantern is how its name describes, beautiful. With mauve standards flushed yellow and inky purple bells make a stunning combination. The spires are carried above whorls of mid-green foliage.

Available at this young, green stage. Height, including pot, ranges between 20cm-40cm.

Flowering Period April - June

Eventual Height 80cm

Details

Instantly recognisable, many people remember lupins from childhood in their parents or grannies garden. You will be rewarded with great spires in every colour, the humming of bumble bees during the glorious summer days as they go about their relentless quest for nectar, and flowers which look great in the borders, fantastic in a vase. Their perfume is distinct, filling the air with a heady peppery, mossy scent and very much more noticeable indoors. Strip the foliage and side shoots first or the florets will drop. Plunge into water and enjoy a big, colourful display for a good week.

Ideal Soil for Lupins

The Latin name for lupin, Lupinus, is derived from lupus meaning wolf or destroyer. Because lupins will grow in poor soil they have also attracted the misleading idea that they can destroy the fertility of the soil. This is not true; lupins make their own nitrogen enabling them to grow in poorer soils but not chalk. Ideally a well-drained, neutral to slightly acidic soil will ensure 100% success but most soils will be fine.

Climate Tolerated by Lupins

Pretty much any climate will be tolerated by lupins. They are very hardy herbaceous perennials, withstanding frost to at least -25C. In very wet conditions, lupins may succumb to crown rot but if well established, will survive most conditions.

Planting Position for Lupins

Just like us lupins love the sun and their flower spikes will follow its movement east to west on a bright day.  Full sun is said to improve the colour of the flower spikes too.

Uses for Lupins

Because lupins flower primarily in the month of flaming June they coincide with a popular time for couples tying the knot. If you want to be original take some beautiful lupin florets as confetti, strip the blooms just before you set off. As a statement plant in the border, few plants can match the tall, colourful lupin spire. They make excellent pot plants too which is not an idea usually associated with this genus. Put one or two on your patio and enjoy a heavenly morning and evening scent reminiscent of peppery moss.

Please note: All plant listed are stocked by Bents at various periods throughout the year, however, due to seasonality and variations in weather and growing conditions some lines may be unavailable. We advise contacting the store prior to your visit to check on availability.