Mini Gallery Mixed Dwarf Lupine

Quick‑Overview

• Botanical name: Lupinus polyphyllus (dwarf hybrid, Mini Gallery series) — often labelled “Mini Gallery Mixed” or “Mini Gallery™”. 

• Habit: Shorter than traditional lupines, forming colourful flower spikes in mixed hues (reds, pinks, whites, yellows, blues) in early to mid‑summer. 

• Size: Typically about 18–23 in (45–60 cm) tall × 12–18 in (30–45 cm) wide for the dwarf gallery mix. 

• Hardiness: Listed as Zones 3‑9 for the Gallery series mix. 

• Key features: Colourful spike blooms, attractive palmate foliage, good for borders, containers, mixed plantings.

Light & Site Requirements

• Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours) is best for strong bloom and healthy habit. Light part‑shade may be tolerated but flower production may drop. 

• Soil: Prefers well‑drained soil; loose, sandy or loamy is ideal. Heavy clay or soggy conditions can cause issues (e.g., root rot). 

• Moisture: Moderately moist soil is good — lupines don’t like “wet feet”. In dry spells, they benefit from consistent moisture. 

• Spacing: For individual plants allow ~12–18 in (30–45 cm) between plants so spikes display and foliage has room.

Planting & Care

• Plant in spring after last frost or early summer when soil workable.

• At planting, incorporate some organic matter if soil is very poor, but avoid heavy rich soils as lupines sometimes prefer leaner soils for good bloom.

• Water well at planting; keep the soil evenly moist until plant is established.

• Once established, monitor moisture especially in dry periods.

• Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage longer bloom period and avoid self‑seeding (unless you want volunteers). Some sources indicate allowing some seed pods helps future blooms. 

• Avoid excessive nitrogen fertiliser: while lupines fix nitrogen, too much fertility can lead to lush foliage but weak flower spike production.

• In mid‑season, you may stake or support taller spikes if they lean, though dwarf habit reduces need.

Cold‑Climate / Zone 3 Tips

• Since this cultivar is rated to Zone 3, it’s suitable for northern gardens—but success depends on site. Use a sunny, well‑drained spot.

• Avoid low spots where melt‑water accumulates in spring. Good drainage is vital.

• In spring after thaw, check for waterlogging or crown moisture issues; allow good airflow and avoid leaning or collapsing stems.

• Because lupines sometimes are short‑lived perennials (2‑5 years in some reports) in warm climates, in cold climates ensure their base is mulched lightly and plant them in a position where renewal or rotation is easy. 

Photo from Walter's Gardens