Russell's Formula Mix Lupine brings a burst of color to garden borders and cut-flower arrangements with its tall, densely packed flower spikes in a range of hues. This hardy perennial thrives in zones 4 through 8 and reaches 24 to 40 inches tall, flowering reliably over 150 to 190 days from seed. Bred for long-lived, easy-to-maintain performance, it tolerates partial shade and produces blooms ideal for cutting at peak color.
Partial Shade
Moderate
4-8
40in H x ?in W
—
Low
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These vigorous lupines develop from strong taproots that reward deeper cell trays during propagation, resulting in fuller plants and more abundant flowers than those started in shallow containers. The dense flower spikes open gradually from bottom to top, with 80% of blooms on each spike reaching full color, extending the visual impact of each plant. Russell's Formula Mix combines the classic appeal of mixed lupine colors in a cultivar bred specifically for reliability and longevity in northern gardens.
Russell's Formula Mix Lupine shines as a cut flower, with its tall, sturdy spikes holding up well in arrangements. The dense concentration of blooms on each stem makes individual spikes substantial enough to anchor bouquets or display on their own.
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Sow seeds 4 to 8 weeks before your planned transplant date. Use deep cell trays such as 50-cell Deep or 32-cell formats to accommodate the lupine's developing taproot; shallower 50-cell or 72-cell trays can work if you avoid delaying transplanting. Lupine seedlings require generous space to expand, and root restriction will result in weaker plants and fewer flowers. Thin to one seedling per cell when the first true leaves emerge.
Harden off seedlings before transplanting. Lupine seedlings tolerate light frost, so they can be moved to the garden relatively early in spring. Space transplants 18 inches apart in their final location.
Cut flower spikes when approximately 80% of the blooms on each spike have opened, ensuring maximum color and longevity in arrangements. Cut in the early morning when stems are fully hydrated. Remove spikes at the base of the plant using a sharp knife or pruners.
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