Lupinus 'CAMELOT RED'

Lupines are the inevitable item of English gardens as well as Czech woodlands. They come from North America and naturally grow in sunny locations of moist woodland edge, and rocky slopes where their roots establish well in crevices that never lack moisture but are well draining.

Camelot Red is a gorgeous lupine with deep rosy red flowers composed in thick spikes on strong stems that grow 80-100 tall. They bloom from late June till July and if cut back right after flowering they repeat blooming in late summer. Deciduous, palmate leaves are deep green and very attractive as they are finely divided. These plants are short-lived and should be dug out in the spring every 3-5 years, woody parts removed, and new plants put pack to encourage fresh growth.

Lupines like free draining soil that retains moisture and is preferably acidic. They can fix nitrogen from the atmosphere and distribute it through their roots. This is why they are often used as pioneer plants in poor soils. Beware of slugs which can devastate both your seedlings as well as old clumps. The flowering spikes are sturdy but fleshy and should be planted where they can be protected from the extreme wind blasts that could bend or break them. Unlike sweet-lupines whose seeds are edible, ornamental lupines (bitter-lupines) can be harmful if eaten. These plants are short-lived and should be dug out in the spring every 3-5 years, woody parts removed, and new plants put pack to encourage fresh growth. Hardy to about -34°C.

Last update 08-09-2012