Lupin 'Rachel de Thame' Lupinus 'Rachel de Thame'

Water

Lupines, like the 'Rachel de Thame', should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage a strong and deep root system. Typically, watering once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant is sufficient, although this can vary depending on weather conditions and soil type. During the hot summer months or in particularly dry climates, more frequent watering may be necessary. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering; if the soil is still moist, you can wait another day or two before watering again. Adjust the watering schedule during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant and requires less moisture.

Light

Lupines, such as 'Rachel de Thame', thrive best in full sunlight, meaning they should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. They can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can lead to spindly growth and fewer blooms. The ideal spot for these plants is a location that receives bright and direct light for most of the day, ideally in a south-facing position, to ensure vibrant flowering and healthy growth.

Temperature

Lupines, including the 'Rachel de Thame', grow best in climates where the temperatures range from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, making them suitable for cooler climates as well. However, they do not thrive in extreme heat and may need protection or additional watering if temperatures consistently exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintaining the ideal temperature range will result in the best growth and flowering.

Pruning

Pruning lupines, like 'Rachel de Thame', is essential to encourage next year's blooms and to maintain a tidy appearance. Deadheading, or the removal of spent flower spikes, should be done throughout the blooming season to stimulate more blooms. After flowering, cut the plant back by about half to shape it and promote a flush of new leaves. The best time to do heavy pruning is in late fall or early winter after the plants have finished blooming and have begun to die back.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Lupine 'Rachel de Thame' is well-draining with some organic matter, slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal for this perennial.

Repotting

Lupine 'Rachel de Thame' generally does not need frequent repotting; repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current container.

Humidity & Misting

Lupine 'Rachel de Thame' tolerates a wide range of humidity levels; however, it prefers moderate humidity and should not be kept in overly humid environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light and cool temperatures for indoor growing of Lupine.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

The Lupinus 'Rachel de Thame', commonly known as Rachel de Thame Lupine, begins its life as a seed that germinates in late winter to early spring when the soil temperatures warm up. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and establishes a root system while developing its first set of true leaves. The plant undergoes vegetative growth, producing a rosette of palmate leaves, and then produces a flowering stalk in late spring to early summer, showcasing tall spikes of pink and white flowers that attract pollinators. After the flowering phase, the plant sets seed pods, which mature by late summer, and the seeds within these pods are then dispersed, often by mechanical action or wildlife. In later summer or fall, after reproduction, the above-ground part of the perennials may die back, while the root system remains dormant through winter. The following growing season, the plant may regenerate from its rootstock, initiating a new cycle of growth and reproduction.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Propogation: For the Lupinus 'Rachel de Thame', also known as Russell lupine, the most popular method of propagation is by sowing seeds. The ideal time to propagate by seeds is in early spring or autumn. Begin by soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to soften the tough outer shell and enhance germination. After soaking, sow the seeds directly into a well-draining soil mix, at a depth of approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch (about 3 to 6 mm). Maintain consistent moisture and provide a sunny location for the best germination results. Seedlings usually emerge within 14 to 28 days, and flowering can be expected in the following year. This method harnesses the plant’s natural reproductive cycle, making it straightforward and cost-effective.