Staircase® Rose/ White - Lupinus

Staircase® Rose/White is an upright, vegetatively propagated bicolor lupine in Green Fuse Botanicals’ Staircase® series. The breeder lists Rose White as a separate color selection, distinct from Red White and the solid-color forms. ## Garden Profile Green Fuse gives the series a garden height of 28–36 inches and width of 9–11 inches. Its current culture sheet lists hardiness to USDA Zone 4 and performance through Zone 8. Tall flower spikes create a vertical accent in cottage-garden borders and mixed perennial plantings; the rose-and-white flowers add contrast among solid-color lupines and neighboring plants. ## Growing Conditions Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Green Fuse recommends watering thoroughly, then allowing the growing medium to dry before watering again; avoid keeping it overly wet, especially in cool or cloudy weather. The breeder says cold treatment is not required for flowering, although a period of cool conditions can help make flowering more uniform. Lupine flowers attract bees and butterflies. Tall stems may need support, particularly in exposed sites. Lupines are poisonous if eaten. Keep foliage and seeds away from children and pets that might chew them. ## Maintenance Prevent waterlogged soil, particularly in cool weather. Remove spent flower spikes to prolong the display, and stake stems if they begin to lean.