Lupins are the showstoppers of early summer — tall, colourful spires packed with pea-like flowers that bring instant cottage-garden drama to borders. Available in a brilliant range of shades from inky blues and purples to pinks, reds, yellows and creamy whites, they’re fantastic for adding height, structure and a real “wow” moment among roses, delphiniums and geraniums. Lupins are also a big hit with bees and other pollinators, and many varieties will reward you with a second flush of blooms if you deadhead after flowering. Plant them in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, give them a little support in windy gardens, and they’ll return year after year with bigger, bolder displays