Lupinus 'The Pages' – Crimson Russell Lupin

Germination is faster and more reliable if you nick each seed with a knife or soak overnight in warm water before sowing — the hard seed coat slows down germination otherwise. Sow 0.5–1 cm deep from April to June, either direct into warm soil or in trays under cover. Thin or transplant seedlings to 30 × 50 cm spacing in a sunny or lightly shaded spot with fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic soil; heavy clay or chalky ground rarely suits them. As members of the pea family, lupins fix their own nitrogen and enrich the soil for neighbouring plants, so avoid nitrogen-rich feeds. Expect first flowers in the second year. Cut back the main spike after flowering for a smaller second flush. Fully frost-hardy across the Baltic region.

All parts of the lupin plant — especially the seed pods — contain alkaloids that are toxic if eaten by people or pets. The pea-like pods can be tempting to curious children and dogs, so plant with care and remove spent flower spikes before they set seed if this is a concern in your garden.