Sundial lupine (Lupinus perennis)

Sundial lupine (Lupinus perennis) Seeds

$ 4.75

A wide-ranging species of eastern North America, though rare in New England and now extinct in Maine. New Hampshire still has a wild population of this lupine. As a result, we cannot ship sundial lupine seeds to New Hampshire.

In June, lavender-blue flower spires with charming, radiating leaves make this an excellent landscape and garden plant for hot, dry well-drained infertile soil (will not grow in moist soil). Like most legumes, it improves soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. This wildflower is the sole host plant for the rare Karner blue butterfly. Deer-proof. 

Native to Maine: Yes

Growing conditions: Sun to part shade in dry soil

Grows up to: 12-18"

Blooms: In early summer

Natural habitat: Pine barrens, woodlands, meadows, and roadsides with dry, sandy soils

Seeds per packet: 20

Germination Code(s): B and G
The easiest method for sowing these seeds is to soak them overnight in water, then sow outdoors in pots from November through February. However, sundial lupine seeds can be sown until mid-April if you nick the seed coat with a knife, then follow the instructions above. A great species for beginner seed-sowers.

Each seed package carries a specific germination code along with the plant description. These codes indicate specific sowing instructions.

  • A Seeds can be sown outdoors in fall or early spring.
  • B Seeds need a winter or cold period to germinate. Sow outdoors in fall or winter.
  • C Seeds need light to germinate; sow on soil surface and leave uncovered.
  • D Seeds need alternating cycles of warm-to-cold-to-warm to germinate. They can be sown either outdoors in spring or summer and will germinate the following year or in a flat in a warm place for 3 months, then moved to a refrigerator for 2 months, then moved outside in the early summer warmth.
  • E Seeds can not be allowed to dry out. Sow immediately.
  • F Seeds take two years to germinate. Sow outside in the fall or winter and look for germination in the second spring. A shady location prevents the flats from rapid drying and reduces weeding
  • G Large seeds should be soaked overnight in water.
  • FERN: Sow spores in a warm bright location in a sealed container and keep moist. Directions enclosed with package. Challenging.

If you have specific questions about seeds and germination guidelines please contact us at info@wildseedproject.net.

All seeds can be sown and placed outdoors in fall or winter bypassing the need for an artificial indoor cold stratification (refrigerator) required for some species when planted in spring. This is the simplest method. See How to Grow Natives From Seed for detailed instructions.