Lupinus Westcountry Red Rum
Best low-maintenance perennial for gardeners wanting vibrant, pollinator-friendly floral borders.
Discover the intoxicating beauty of Lupinus Westcountry™ 'Red Rum', a sun-loving perennial that showcases a vibrant chorus of colors ranging from crimson to cerise and lilac on large bloom heads. Its handsome, medium to dark green foliage beautifully complements the colorful spires, which attract bees and hummingbirds. Ideal for dressing up borders, beds, or indoor vases, this variety is drought-resistant and tolerates some shade. It is easy to care for, blooming from early spring through early summer. Note that this plant can be harmful if ingested.
$32.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
1072
/ 2693
#1072 in Plants
Price vs Category Average
-25%
Below average
Variety
'Red Rum'
/ 'Red Rum'
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking a bold, high-impact focal point
- Plant lovers wanting consistent, reliable, and vigorous blooms
- Eco-conscious gardeners and floral arrangement enthusiasts
Who should skip it
- Gardeners unwilling to manage aphids and slugs
- People looking for long-term, low-maintenance perennial staples
- Gardeners working with heavy, poorly draining clay soil
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Striking crimson and lilac spires create an immediate focal point.
Pollinator Appeal
High nectar production reliably draws bees and hummingbirds to the garden.
Drought Tolerance
Resilient once established, though consistent moisture remains key for peak blooms.
Maintenance Ease
Low-fuss perennial that thrives with minimal intervention throughout the season.
Cut Flower Utility
Sturdy, tall stems perform beautifully in indoor floral arrangements.
Environmental Versatility
Adapts well to partial shade while preferring full sun exposure.
Key Specs
Variety
'Red Rum'
Item Form
1-Quart
Mature Height
3 Feet
Mature Width
15 in
Light Requirements
Full Sun, Part Shade
Moisture Requirements
Moist, well-drained
Bloom Time
Late Spring to Mid Summer
Features
- Produces multi-colored spires in shades of crimson, cerise, and lilac.
- Attracts beneficial pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.
- Drought resistant once established.
- Tolerates partial shade conditions.
- Columnar growth habit is excellent for borders and beds.
- Suitable for use as cut flowers.
- Easy to care for with minimal maintenance.
What customers say
Gardeners consistently praise the striking visual quality and robust performance of the Lupinus Red Rum. The deep, intense red coloring is frequently highlighted, confirming its superior design appeal and ability to create dramatic vertical interest in the landscape. Customers note that the plants establish quickly and reliably deliver the promised vibrant display, making this cultivar a highly valued addition for those seeking both intense color and dependable garden quality.
Know before you buy
Given its mature width of 15 inches, you should space these lupines about 15 to 18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.
While this variety thrives in full sun, it is versatile enough to tolerate partial shade. Keep in mind that more sun generally results in more prolific blooming.
Yes, once the root system is fully established, it becomes drought-resistant. However, you should still provide regular water during the first growing season to help it settle in.
Absolutely. The tall, colorful spires make excellent cut flowers for vases, adding a striking vertical element to indoor floral displays.
Yes, this plant is toxic if ingested. It is best to keep it away from curious pets and small children.
It is a low-maintenance perennial. Simply ensure it is planted in well-drained soil and consider deadheading the spent flower spikes to encourage a tidy appearance.
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$33