Lupin
Lupins are a traditional garden favourite and once you see these majestic perennials in flower it is not hard to see why. They produce spectacular, richly coloured spikes which can range from heights of 60cm through to 2m tall.
Lupins do best in full sun or dappled shade, in moist but well-drained soil. Like many other perennials with tall flowers, lupins benefit from a sheltered position. Grow them towards the back of a border.
Lupins are also available in our National Trust inspired seed range.
Caps Browning Smith, Senior Gardener, Hardy’s Cottage, Dorset says:
Lupins were introduced to the UK from as early as 1637. Thomas Hardy would have been familia with these typical English cottage garden flower when he set out the "flower knot" garden, with his friend Herman Lea; in front of Hardy`s Cottage.
Few authors have such strong associations with the natural and cultural heritage of their local area as Thomas Hardy. This cottage, where Hardy was born in 1840, was built of cob and thatch by his great-grandfather. Writing was Hardy's first love, and it was from here that he wrote several of his early short stories, poetry and novels including 'Under the Greenwood Tree' and 'Far from the Madding Crowd’. The garden reflects most people's idea of a typical cottage garden, with roses around the door, and the sound of birdsong.
Through sales generated from the National Trust Collection by Blue Diamond, a minimum of 10% of the retail sales price per product will be given to the National Trust to help look after nature, beauty and history for everyone, for ever.
