Q Why did my lupins not open properly? TIM BARBER, BY EMAIL

A These are tree lupins, whose flowers are held in looser panicles than cultivated types of lupin. There are even some seed pods on your photo (below), which confirms the flowers did reach maturity. Tree lupins prefer a sunny spot and it looks as though your plants are in shade, so if you try moving them into a sunnier location they may flower better.