Unpack bare roots or rhizomes on arrival and plant them within a week. Until then, keep them somewhere cool and ensure the roots remain slightly moist, never wet.
'Manhattan Lights'
lupin
Lupinus 'Manhattan Lights' boasts tall spires of bi-coloured flowers in a striking combination of rich purple and yellow. These upright, densely packed blooms emerge in early summer, standing proudly above the plant’s attractive palmate leaves. The foliage itself is a fresh, bright green, adding structure and interest even when not in flower.
Lupinus 'Manhattan Lights' thrives in a sunny or partially shaded position with well-drained soil. It’s perfect for the middle of mixed borders, where its tall, elegant flower spikes create vertical interest. Lupins prefer slightly acidic or neutral soil and will appreciate a well-prepared, organic-rich planting site. It also makes a striking feature when planted in groups, ensuring a bold, eye-catching display. Plant Lupinus 'Manhattan Lights' with other early summer favourites like delphiniums and foxgloves for a cottage garden feel. Its bold colour scheme makes it a dramatic companion for plants with softer tones, such as pale pink roses or white peonies, while also contrasting beautifully with ornamental grasses and silver foliage plants.
For a more contemporary look, plant alongside eryngiums or alliums to create a striking architectural display. In addition to its stunning appearance, Lupinus 'Manhattan Lights' is a magnet for pollinators, especially bees and butterflies, which will be drawn to its nectar-rich blooms. This variety is a reliable performer, coming back year after year with even more vigour. Its deep root system helps improve soil structure, making it a great choice for naturalising and contributing to a healthy garden ecosystem.
While Lupins are traditionally grown in borders, Lupinus 'Manhattan Lights' can also be successfully grown in large containers. Choose a deep pot and position it in a sunny spot to enjoy the spectacular flowers up close. Regular feeding and watering will keep the plant in top condition, rewarding you with months of vibrant blooms that will light up any patio or terrace. Lupinus 'Manhattan Lights' is the perfect addition to a wildlife-friendly garden, offering stunning colour, form, and a haven for pollinators. A must-have for any gardener looking to make a bold statement.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Remove the packaging straight away, check the compost and water thoroughly if dry. Check the plant’s hardiness before placing it outdoors. Plant into a border or permanent container within a month, choosing the position recommended for the variety. Keep the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil, firm gently and water well.
Soak the roots in water for three to six hours immediately before planting. Keep any crown, buds or emerging shoots above the water where possible.
Pot most bare roots into 15–20cm pots filled with peat-free multipurpose compost. Large or depth-sensitive roots, including peonies, are often best planted directly into borders.
Arrange the roots naturally without bending them. Cover the roots completely, positioning the crown and buds at the depth recommended for that particular perennial.
Keep pots in a sheltered outdoor position and water whenever the compost begins to dry. Grow on until roots hold the compost together when lifted from the pot.
Plant into a suitable border or permanent container once well rooted. Add a label and water regularly throughout the first growing season while the perennial establishes.
- Botanical name
- Lupinus 'Manhattan Lights'ᴾᴮᴿ
- Flower colour
- Purple, yellow
- Established height
- 70cm-1.2m
- Established spread
- 50cm-1m
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
-
Upright
Clump-forming - Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Plant size
- 1
- Plant spacing
- 5 plants per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- No
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
- Free draining
- Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Multipurpose compost
Loam-based compost - Suitable for
-
Large containers
Borders
Wildlife gardens
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens
Cut flower gardens - Sunlight
-
Full sun
Partial shade - Toxicity
- No report
- Years to establish
- 1-2 years
Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.