Lupine – West Country Blacksmith

While the Westcountry series of Lupine has several colors available, the royal purple and white bicolor lupine Blacksmith has to be one of its most dramatic colors. Deep rich purple with opposing white petals are contrasted by bright green palm-like leaves at the base of the plant. Stocky stems bear the huge blooms high above the foliage and are almost regal in their appearance. A much sought after addition to informal cottage gardens, Lupine would look spectacular in a mass planting of the same color or perhaps a variety of colors with great effect. You are going to want to give this unique perennial a try in your garden this spring.

Native to North America and hardy from South Alaska, across the top tier to Quebec and then down to middle Western states including California, Lupine grows wild in open meadows and prairies in full sun. Hardy in Zone 4-9, Westcountry Blacksmith thrives in much of the Lower 48 states with the exception of areas with the harshest winters and the hottest summers. What began hundreds of years ago as an obsession of one man to create the perfect Lupine has culminated in some really solid performers for today’s gardeners. The famous Russell Lupine is a parent of the Westcountry Lupine and we have George Russell to thank in part for this spectacular hybrid.