Lupines can self-seed under the right conditions, but they do not spread aggressively.

The Governor Lupine

Lupinus polyphyllus 'The Governor'

Plants that Work®

Stunning Ultramarine Blue and White Bicolor Lupine Flower Spikes Command 3-4 Feet of Garden Drama
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 3-6
Grows 3-4 ft Tall, 1 ft Wide
Showy White, Purple Blooms From Early Summer to Late Spring
Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant

$29⁹³

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Plant Size

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: The Governor Lupine performs best in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct light to produce those signature tall flower spikes. In warmer climates, provide afternoon shade to protect the foliage from wilting, though this may slightly reduce the total number of blooms.
Soil: These plants crave gritty, well-draining soil that mimics their native rocky slopes. If you have heavy clay, mix in organic compost or fine gravel to improve drainage, as Lupines will quickly develop root rot if they sit in "wet feet" during the winter.

Watering Requirements

During the first growing season, water your Lupine twice a week to help the deep taproot settle into its new home. Once established, these plants are remarkably drought-tolerant, but inconsistent moisture during the budding stage can lead to stunted flower towers or premature wilting. Aim for deep, infrequent soakings at the base of the plant rather than frequent light mists that only dampen the surface.

Pruning Tips

The Governor Lupine blooms on new wood, so you should deadhead spent flower spikes immediately after they fade. This prevents the plant from wasting energy on seed production and often encourages a smaller second flush of flowers later in the summer. Think of this like a mid-season refresh that keeps the energy focused on root health and foliage rather than reproduction.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring just as the new growth emerges from the soil. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer, because this triggers soft, leafy growth that is highly susceptible to aphid attacks and frost damage. A formula higher in phosphorus is ideal for supporting those deep blue and white bi-color blooms.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Flowering, Deer-resistant, Drought resistant, Attracts Butterflies, Attracts pollinators
Hardiness Zone	4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	3-4 ft
Width	1 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Loamy, Peaty
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Upright
Blooms In	Spring, Summer
Flower Color	White, Purple
Foliage Color	Green
Pet Safety	Toxic to pets
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Botanical Name	Lupinus polyphyllus 'The Governor'
Species	polyphyllus
Cultivar	The Governor
Class	Magnoliopsida, Fabidae
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

The Governor Lupine - A Two-Tone Gem!

The Governor Lupine (Lupinus polyphyllus 'The Governor') is a striking, tall perennial that brings a wave of vibrant ultramarine blue and white bicolor blooms to the garden! This eye-catching Lupine boasts densely packed flower spikes that rise above lush, palmate foliage, creating a spectacular floral display in late spring to early summer.

With a strong vertical presence, this herbaceous perennial reaches about 3-4 feet tall and spreads up to 18 inches wide, forming a tidy clump. Its deeply cut, green leaves are a stunning backdrop to the bold spikes of pea-like flowers. As the blooms fade, ornamental seed pods develop, adding further interest to the plant. In autumn, the foliage may take on golden hues before dying back for winter dormancy, only to return bigger and better in spring.

Symbolizing imagination and happiness, and native to North America, Lupines thrive in cooler climates and are well-adapted to temperate regions. This stately perennial is a fantastic addition to borders, meadows, and cottage gardens, offering both ornamental beauty and ecological benefits.

Key Features

Tall, upright spikes of bold blue and white bicolor flowers
Blooms in late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators
Herbaceous perennial that returns annually
Deep green, palmate foliage for season-long interest
Thrives in full sun with well-drained soil
Cold hardy and well-suited for temperate climates

Landscaping Uses

Known for its classic cottage garden charm and alpine meadow aesthetic, The Governor is also a pollinator magnet, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich blossoms. The Governor Lupine is a commanding presence in garden beds and borders.

Ideal for cottage gardens and wildflower meadows
Adds vertical interest in perennial borders
Pairs beautifully with Larkspur, Delphiniums, and Peonies
Great for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
Perfect for Rock Gardens, Cottage Gardens, and Perennial borders
Suitable for naturalized areas and pollinator-friendly gardens
Salt-tolerant, ideal for coastal landscapes.
Deep tap roots make them drought-tolerant and prevent erosion

Care and Maintenance

As an herbaceous perennial native to coastal California, The Governor Lupine is a reliable garden favorite with easy care requirements. The Governor excels in full sun and prefers well-draining soil with moderate moisture. Lupines like The Governor have a long history of being grown for their soil-enriching properties, as they fix nitrogen into the ground, improving the health of surrounding plants.

Planting Time: Best planted in early spring or fall.
Sun Needs: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct light), but tolerates part shade in hotter growing zones.
Soil Needs: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil; dislikes heavy clay. Can be drought-tolerant once established.
Moisture Needs: Moderate moisture; does not tolerate soggy soil
Mulch: A 3-4 inch layer of organic mulch helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilization Needs: Minimal fertilization needed. Avoid excessive nitrogen to prevent floppy growth.
Pruning Info: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage a second flush of blooms. Trim stems and foliage back in the fall after the first frost for a tidy winter dormancy.

Special Perks: Deer and rabbit resistant, improves soil by fixing nitrogen, tolerates saline/coastal conditions.

A Striking Choice For A Grand Garden

The Governor Lupine commands attention with its tall, striking flower spikes and bold blue-and-white color scheme. Whether you're looking to enhance your pollinator garden, create a showy border, or add a regal touch to your perennial beds, this stately Lupine is a must-have!

Order yours today from Nature Hills Nursery, and we'll ship it at the perfect time for your growing zone!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do Lupines come back every year?

Yes, The Governor Lupine is a hardy herbaceous perennial that returns each spring. These can tend to be shorter lived perennials, but they readily self-seed and spread into colonies.

Can Lupines tolerate heat?

Lupines prefer cooler climates and may struggle in extreme summer heat, especially in hot, humid regions.

Do Lupines spread?

Lupines can self-seed under the right conditions, but they do not spread aggressively.

How do I encourage more blooms on my Lupine?

Deadheading spent flowers can encourage a second wave of blooms later in the season.

The Governor Lupine

Lupinus polyphyllus 'The Governor'