This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: moderately fertile, well-drained, slightly acid, sandy soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: June to July and sometimes again in September
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  A robust lupin that produces densely packed spikes of creamy white flowers in mid-summer, and often again in early autumn. Lupins are stalwarts of the cottage garden, and are perfect for adding vertical movement to the border. Easy to grow and undemanding, they put on quite a show, with the minimum of fuss, provided they have reliable moisture when actively growing.
  
  
• Garden care: Stake with bamboo canes in spring before the flowers appear and deadhead the faded blooms to encourage a second flush of flowers. Avoid excessive winter wet.