Flower spires of mixed jewel and pastel colours provide a dazzling coherent display over dissected fan-like foliage. One of the most exciting breakthroughs last centenary, George Russell planted thousands of plants from different species over 25 years to offer every colour and bicolour. Prefers acidic soil, no manures and preforms best in frost. Not only ornamental, as a legume, Lupins improve the soil by fixing nitrogen.