Russel Lupin 'Chandelier'

50 Seeds

Seeding Russell Lupin 'Chandelier'—a striking cultivar with tall spikes of buttery yellow flowers—is a satisfying way to add vertical color to borders, cottage gardens, or wildflower plantings. While Russell lupins (Lupinus polyphyllus hybrids) are typically short-lived perennials or biennials, they are easily grown from seed with a few key steps.

🌼 Quick Profile

• Name: Lupinus polyphyllus Russell Hybrid ‘Chandelier’

• Color: Pale to bright yellow

• Type: Perennial (short-lived); flowers 2nd year from seed

• Height: 36–48 in (90–120 cm)

• Zones: 4–8

• Bloom: Late spring to early summer

📅 When to Sow

• Indoors: 6–8 weeks before last frost (recommended for best control)

• Outdoors: Early spring or fall (direct sow in place)

🌿 How to Sow (Indoors)

1. Scarify seeds (important):

   • Gently nick the seed coat with a nail file or soak in warm water for 12–24 hours to soften.

2. Fill pots or trays with a moist, well-draining seed-starting mix.

3. Sow seeds about ¼ inch (6 mm) deep.

4. Mist gently or water from below to avoid disturbing seeds.

5. Temperature: 60–70°F (15–21°C).

6. Light: Moderate light during germination, then full light once sprouted.

7. ⏱️ Germination: 14–21 days (may be erratic without scarification)

🌞 Transplanting Outdoors

• Timing: After the last frost, once seedlings have 2–3 true leaves.

• Hardening off: Gradually expose to outdoor conditions for 5–7 days.

• Spacing: 12–18 in (30–45 cm) apart.

• Location: Full sun to light shade.

• Soil: Deep, well-drained, neutral to slightly acidic. Avoid heavy clay or overly rich soil.

✂️ Care & Maintenance

• Water: Keep evenly moist but not soggy.

• Staking: Tall flower spikes may need support in windy areas.

• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding.

• Cut back after flowering to promote basal growth and longevity.

• Divide or replace every few years to keep vigorous.

🐝 Wildlife & Pollinator Notes

• Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

• Deer-resistant