Lupines can be finicky but they seldom need (and typically resent) division. Generally they prefer being left alone to thrive where they're planted. If they're happy, chances are good they'll return year after year. If not, they'll disappear.

Once I plant lupines, I leave them alone to do as they choose to do without interference from me. That seems to suit both of us.

BTW, I checked my perennial reference guide, Perennials for Every Purpose by Larry Hodgson. He basically says the same about lupine as I did above.

in z5 MI ... i never considered them a long lived perennial ...

they did reseed very sporadically ... usually to white ...

its been a long time.. and i never had a lot ... but i would keep adding to the group.. if you want to maintain the colony long term ...

ken

I agree with everything above. They have a taproot that goes very deep. I typically get lots of volunteers. Try saving some seed or clearing an area of mulch and direct sowing.

Martha

Those are gorgeous!

Gorgeous!. When the seed pods start to dry out and twist, grab some of the seeds and tuck into the soil around your planting area...or save the seeds and start a tray in feb-march....you will get a better percentage of baby 'starts'...a bit better than nature does.

Of course i'm speaking of the wild variety but have had success with both...