Plant Profile: Lupinus

There are more than 300 species of lupines, with the majority originating from the Western United States, where they thrive in cooler climates. Indigenous varieties like L. perennis and L. diffusus can be found in coastal plains, although they may be challenging to source for gardening purposes. For cooler mountain gardens, hybrid lupines, particularly the Russell Hybrids, are ideal; in USDA zones 7-8, they should be treated as annuals. It is recommended to sow the seeds in the fall.