Red Rum Lupine
Lupinus polyphyllus 'Red Rum'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
All parts, especially seeds, are toxic if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Lupinus polyphyllus 'Red Rum' is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its striking red flower spikes and attractive foliage. This cultivar is particularly noted for its vibrant flower color and robust growth habit, making it a standout in any garden.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds 1 inch deep into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings or water young plants regularly to keep soil moist.
- Thin seedlings to 6-12 inches apart for proper air circulation.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season for vigorous growth.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Stake taller varieties to support stems during heavy blooms.
Pro Tip
Soak seeds in warm water for 12 hours before planting to improve germination.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged stems to promote healthy growth
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not disturb roots during flowering
- Avoid planting in poorly drained soil
- Do not fertilize late in the season to prevent weak growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Propagate |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Red Rum Lupine questions
What zones can Red Rum Lupine grow in?
Red Rum Lupine is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Red Rum Lupine deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Red Rum Lupine, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Red Rum Lupine bloom?
Red Rum Lupine typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Red Rum Lupine need full sun?
Red Rum Lupine does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Lupinus to compare
Wild Lupine
Lupinus perennis
Red Popsicle Lupine
Lupinus polyphyllus 'Red Popsicle'
Mixed Dwarf Lupine
Lupinus polyphyllus 'Mixed Dwarf'
Garden Lupine
Lupinus polyphyllus 'Towering Inferno'
Magic Lantern lupine
Lupinus polyphyllus 'Magic Lantern'
Gallery Blue Lupine
Lupinus polyphyllus 'Gallery Blue'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Red Rum Lupine with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
