Lupins produce bold, colourful spikes of pea-like flowers in early summer – from white to pinks, reds, yellows, blues and purples, and various combinations of these. These reach 90cm (3ft) tall, rising above clumps of softly hairy green leaves divided into finger-like leaflets.
 
Lupins are sun-lovers, so give them a warm, open, bright position. They also like well-drained or even poor soil that is slightly acidic.
 
Heavy, wet soil is not appreciated by lupins, and they dislike drought when growth begins in spring. Light shade is tolerated.
 
Lupins are great for planting in bold drifts with ornamental grasses and other tall perennials, such as bearded irises and delphiniums. They make brilliant cut flowers too.