Tall Russell Lupine, Lupinus polyphyllus

It is renowned for its tall spires of colorful pea-like flowers, which come in shades of blue, purple, pink, red, and white. The plant typically grows between 2 to 4 feet in height, with a spread of about 1 to 2 feet. Its lush, palmate leaves add to its overall appeal, creating a delightful display in gardens and landscapes.

Historical Information: The Tall Russell Lupine is native to North America and the western regions of the United States. It has a rich history, often being cultivated for its ornamental value in gardens. Additionally, Native American tribes used certain species of lupine for medicinal purposes, including treating skin ailments and even as a food source.

Fun Facts:

1. Lupines are known for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, making them valuable plants for enriching garden beds.
2. The name “Russell” in Tall Russell Lupine comes from the English gardener George Russell, who extensively bred and cultivated various lupine species in the early 20th century.
3. In some cultures, lupines symbolize imagination, creativity, and happiness.

Growing Tall Russell Lupine:

Materials Needed:

• Tall Russell Lupine seeds
• Seed starting trays or pots
• Seed starting mix
• Grow lights or a sunny windowsill
• Watering can
• Fertilizer (optional)
• Garden gloves (optional)

Steps:

1. Seed Preparation (Optional): While not necessary, you can soak the Tall Russell Lupine seeds in lukewarm water for 24 hours before planting to help speed up germination.
2. Germination: Sow the seeds in seed starting trays or pots filled with a well-draining seed starting mix. Plant the seeds about ¼ inch deep.
3. Temperature: The ideal temperature for germinating Tall Russell Lupine seeds is between 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C). Keep the trays/pots in a warm location, such as near a sunny window or under grow lights.
4. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water from the bottom to prevent disturbing the seeds. Avoid overhead watering, as lupine seeds are prone to rotting if they stay too wet.
5. Light: Once the seeds germinate (typically within 1 to 3 weeks), provide them with ample sunlight or artificial light for at least 6 to 8 hours per day.
6. Transplanting: When the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots or directly into the garden bed, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches apart.
7. Care: Water the transplanted seedlings regularly, and consider applying a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
8. Harvesting: Tall Russell Lupine typically blooms in late spring to early summer. You can harvest the seeds once the pods turn brown and start to crack open. Collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place for future planting.

Uses for Tall Russell Lupine:

Medicinal Uses and Benefits: While Tall Russell Lupine is primarily grown for its ornamental value, it does have some medicinal uses:

• Some Native American tribes used certain species of lupine for making poultices to treat skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.
• Lupine seeds contain alkaloids that have been studied for their potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• ***However, it’s important to note that lupine seeds and other parts of the plant can be toxic if ingested in large quantities and should not be consumed without proper preparation.

***This information is not intended to be used as a diagnosis.  Caution should be exercised when considering any medicinal use, and it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.