Texas Bluebonnet, Lupine Seeds

Texas Bluebonnet Lupine Seed

Texas state flower paints spring landscapes vivid blue
Pea-like blooms thrive in sunny well-drained ground
Established plants handle seasonal drought
A beloved native for meadows and roadside-style plantings

See product details

Key Attributes

Botanical Name

Lupinus texensis

Days to maturity

91-98 Days

Sun

Full Sun

Packet

25 Seeds

About Texas Bluebonnet, Lupine Seed, Lupine Seed

Texas Bluebonnet is the beloved state flower of Texas, producing striking blue, pea-like blooms in early spring. Plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, becoming drought tolerant once established. The flowers attract bees and butterflies and are excellent for naturalized plantings, meadows, and dry landscapes. Although commonly grown as an annual, Texas Bluebonnet can self-seed and return in future seasons when conditions are favorable.

Growing details

Planting

Sow Depth

1/4"

Days to Germination

7–14 days

Germination Type

N - Nick Seed Coat

In-row plant spacing

12-14"

Plant profile

Life Cycle

Annual

Plant Height

36 inches

Growth Habits

Clumping, Upright

Seed & variety

Seeds Per Ounce

938

Color

Blue

Seed Type

Open Pollinated

Before Planting

Before planting Lupine, select a full-sun location with loose, well-drained soil and avoid heavy nitrogen applications. Incorporate compost only if the soil is poor, and use a soil test to correct pH, phosphorus, or potassium. Inoculate lupine seed with the appropriate legume inoculant where compatible legumes have not recently grown, and install supports before planting climbing types.

Planting

Direct sow scarified or soaked lupine seed in early spring or fall, or start in deep cells to protect the taproot. Space plants 12–18 inches apart.

Watering

Once established, lupine prefers deep, infrequent watering. Let the surface dry between irrigations, supply extra moisture during extended heat, and avoid keeping the crown continuously wet.

Fertilizer

Fertilize lupine according to soil-test results, usually without added nitrogen. Excess nitrogen reduces nodulation and favors excessive foliage, while phosphorus or potassium may be needed on deficient soils.

Harvesting

Lupine flowers are ready when stems are firm and blooms show mature color without fading. Cut during cool, dry conditions; for seed, leave selected heads until brown and dry.

Tips

Stake tall lupines where wind is strong and remove spent spikes to limit unwanted seedlings. Seeds and other plant parts may be toxic if ingested; keep them away from children, pets, and livestock.

Pests & Diseases

Anthracnose, brown spot, powdery mildew, and Pythium root rot are important lupine diseases. Anthracnose bends stems into a characteristic crook and may be seedborne. Purchase clean seed, remove affected plants, rotate legumes, and avoid overhead watering. Perennial crowns require excellent drainage through winter.

Lupine may attract sap-feeding aphids and leafhoppers, chewing beetles, weevils, and cutworms. Scout new growth and pods, use physical removal, and preserve lady beetles and other beneficial insects.