Proven Winners® Westcountry™ Blacksmith Lupine

Proven Winners® Westcountry™ Blacksmith Lupine (Lupinus polyphyllus 'Blacksmith') is a striking perennial with dramatic two-toned flower spikes of deep maroon-black and crisp white. Blooming in late spring to early summer, this hybrid Lupine is a standout in the garden, drawing in pollinators like bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich blossoms.

Its upright, architectural form and deeply divided green foliage make it a dynamic addition to your sun gardens. The dark-and-light color contrast creates an elegant, almost mystical presence in the garden. Once established, this variety offers a stunning floral display that returns bigger and better each year, making it a must-have for those who love bold, eye-catching blooms.

Growing up to 3 feet tall and about 2 feet wide, Blacksmith Lupine forms sturdy, upright spires covered in densely packed Pea-like flowers. Its lush, palmate leaves add texture even when not in bloom. Ideal for temperate gardens, Blacksmith Lupine symbolizes resilience and transformation, much like its namesake—a blacksmith forging something beautiful from raw materials.

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Key Features

• Two-toned blooms in deep maroon-black and white
• Blooms in late spring to early summer
• Pollinator-friendly – attracts bees and butterflies
• Cold hardy – thrives in USDA zones 4-8
• Palmate-like foliage adds texture even when not in bloom
• Nitrogen-fixing – improves soil quality naturally
• Thrives in cooler climates
• Salt-tolerant and ideal for coastal landscapes

Landscaping Uses

With its upright, spiky blooms reaching 3 feet tall, Westcountry™ Blacksmith Lupine creates a stunning vertical accent in any garden.

• Perfect for cottage gardens and perennial borders
• Adds dramatic color contrast in mixed beds
• Drought tolerant enough to use in Rock Gardens and Xeric landscapes
• Pollinator gardens – nectar-rich flowers attract bees and butterflies
• Mass plantings for a bold, dramatic effect
• Cut flower gardens – make exquisite, long-lasting floral arrangements
• The deep tap roots help prevent erosion

Care and Maintenance

It flourishes in well-drained, slightly acidic soils and enjoys full sun to partial shade. Hardy in USDA zones 4-9, this cold-tolerant perennial thrives in cooler climates but can adapt to milder regions with proper care.

A member of the Pea family, it also helps improve soil health by fixing nitrogen, benefiting neighboring plants. This is a low-maintenance yet high-impact native cultivar that rewards good care with spectacular blooms.

• Planting Time: Spring or early fall.
• Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade.
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil; does not tolerate wet feet.
• Moisture Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but cannot handle standing water or heavy clay.
• Mulch: Apply a 3-4 inch deep layer of bark mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilization Needs: Low; benefits from a spring application of compost or balanced fertilizer.
• Pruning Info: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage a possible late-season rebloom. Cut back in late fall or early winter after foliage dies back.
• Special Perks & Growing Tips:
• Deer and rabbit resistant
• Tolerates cool temperatures and thrives in northern climates
• Fixes nitrogen in the soil, benefiting neighboring plants
• Protect from extreme heat in southern zones

Forge a Stronger Garden with Blacksmith Lupine!

Westcountry™ Blacksmith Lupine brings a bold, moody elegance to any garden with its dramatic dark blooms and pollinator appeal. Whether used in cottage gardens, borders, or floral arrangements, this striking perennial will turn heads and strengthen your garden's biodiversity. Order now from Nature Hills Nursery, and we'll ship it at the optimal planting time for your zone!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my Westcountry™ Blacksmith Lupine to bloom again?
Deadhead spent blooms promptly to encourage a possible late-season rebloom. Provide adequate moisture and avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can promote foliage at the expense of flowers.

Is Blacksmith Lupine deer resistant?
Yes, Lupines are generally deer and rabbit resistant, thanks to their slightly toxic alkaloids, which deter browsing animals.

Can I grow Westcountry™ Blacksmith Lupine in containers?
While possible, Lupines have deep taproots and prefer to be planted in garden beds. If grown in a container, use a large, very deep pot with well-draining soil.