Harvesting Lupine Seeds

Lupines come in both annual and perennial varieties. A member of the legume family, they produce pods which house three to five pea-like seeds. Lupines come in a variety of colors ranging from white and pale pink to blue and violet. Blooming in mid-summer, they produce many tight petaled flowers along a 2- to 3-foot stalk. One of the better known varieties of the lupine is the state flower of Texas, the Bluebonnet. Harvest the seeds from your lupines to save money each year when planting annuals or expanding a perennial bed.

Step 1

Wait until the plant begins to die back and the seed pods begin to ripen before harvesting. Pick after the pods turn dark gray or black but before they split open.

Step 2

Spread the pods out in a single layer on a paper plate. Place in a warm, well-ventilated room for 2 weeks to fully dry.

Step 3

Split open the pods along the seams, just as if you were shelling peas. Remove the seeds and inspect them for maturity. Mature, well-formed seeds are approximately ¼ inch in diameter and grayish brown.

Step 4

Label the envelope with the lupine variety and harvest year. Place the seeds in the envelope and seal it.

Step 5

Store in a cool, dry place until ready to plant. Alternatively, place in a jar and store in the refrigerator.