Lupine 'My Castle'

Lupine 'My Castle'

Lupinus polyphyllus

Lupine ‘My Castle’ produces strong, upright spikes that add height and structure to the cut flower garden early in the season. The tall spires of saturated rose-pink blooms with subtle bi-color tones and soft highlights are productive and hold well in the vase, making them especially useful for spring bouquets and market arrangements. Plants establish into sturdy clumps and return reliably year after year, offering consistent performance once established.

Details

Plant type: perennial

Height: 24-40”

Site: sun/part shade

Days to maturity: 150-190 days

Plant spacing: 12”

Pinch: not necessary

Kids & Pets: poisonous, resistant to deer

Transplant (recommended):
Start seeds indoors 4–8 weeks before planting out. Soak seeds overnight to improve germination. Use deep cell trays (32-cell or deep 50-cell) to support taproot development. Thin to one plant per cell at first true leaves. Seedlings tolerate light frost. Harden off well and transplant promptly, as root restriction reduces stem quality.

Direct seed:
Sow early spring as soon as soil can be worked. Cover seeds with ¼″ soil, as darkness aids germination. Keep soil evenly moist.

Germination:
14–21 days at 65–75°F (18–24°C).

Where to plant:
Full sun to part shade in moist, well-drained soil. Slightly acidic soil preferred.

Harvesting / Vase Life:
Harvest when about 80% of florets on the spike are open. Cut early for best hydration. Expect a vase life of 5–6 days.

In the landscape:
Plants reach 24–40″ tall and should be spaced 18–24″ apart. Remove spent blooms to support continued production.