This annual has hairy stems with ascending branches that form a low bushy habit. It has pubescent dark green divided leaves and the fragrant yellow pea-shaped flowers appear in a terminal raceme just above the foliage during spring. 

Hardiness zones 5 to 8

Lupinus luteus is naturally found in the Mediterranean region of southern Europe growing on coastal sands and cliffs or open woodlands and on dry hilly grassland.  It has also naturalised in many countries and in New Zealand it is regarded as a weed. 

It prefers an open sunny partially shaded position and grows in well-drained, moderately fertile moist to dry sandy soil with a pH range of 4.5-7.5. It is frost and drought tolerant and the plant can fix nitrogen in the soil. It is deer and rabbit resistant and tolerates a wide range of environmental conditions.

The Yellow Javelin Lupin is grown for its flowers and bushy habit. It is planted in small cottage gardens along low borders or mass planted for bedding displays in parks and large gardens. It is also grown in pots and tubs or allowed to naturalise in the understory of a woodland setting.  

It is suitable for coastal and low-mountain regions and establishes in one season. It is also grown for its edible seed that requires treatment to remove the toxic alkaloids in herb gardens and the flowers can be used in floral arrangements. Under ideal conditions this annual self sow's and invades pastures or disturbed ground and is difficult to control. ID 196

Note:
Dip the cut ends of the flower stem in boiling water to prolong the display.

Lupinus (LOO-pin-us) luteus (LOO-tee-uss)

Fabaceae (fab-AY-see-ee)