Species

Lupinus polyphyllusBigleaf Lupine

25 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Red Popsicle Lupine

Lupinus polyphyllus 'Red Popsicle'

The Story

Plant Bio

Red Popsicle is a vibrant lupine cultivar known for its tall spikes of bright red flowers.

This cultivar is particularly noted for its unique red flower color, setting it apart from other lupines.

Uses & Benefits:

Vibrant red flowers create eye-catching garden accents, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Fixes nitrogen in soil, improving fertility for surrounding plants.

Supports local pollinator populations and enhances biodiversity.

SpeciesLupinus polyphyllusBigleaf Lupine

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

16 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 are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings to maintain humidity during root development.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilize with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer monthly.
Prune after flowering to promote bushiness and remove dead stems.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Scarify seeds lightly before planting to improve germination rates.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Provide full sun for optimal flowering
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage rebloom

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don't plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Pest Check

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid flower borderWildflower meadow accentButterfly attracting patch

Companion Plants

Echinacea Coreopsis Salvia Gaillardia Achillea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Popsicle Lupine questions

What zones can Red Popsicle Lupine grow in?

Red Popsicle 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 Popsicle Lupine deer resistant?

Yes — Red Popsicle Lupine is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Red Popsicle Lupine bloom?

Red Popsicle 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 Popsicle Lupine need full sun?

Red Popsicle Lupine does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Red Popsicle Lupine drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Popsicle Lupine handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.