I've never tried Lupine before, but just as a general rule for Utah, I try not to set out bedding plants until around Mother's Day weekend. Unless I know for sure they're tough and can take a little snow (like pansies, peas, etc). In my old Zone7 garden it used to be Tax Day, but not up here in "The Great White North" known as Utah. :D

I think the best Lupines you can buy are the ones you start yourself. Check out the winter sowing forum to learn how to start seeds outdoors. I started Lupines this way and had tons of them. They flower the second year. The sad thing is is that Lupines are not reliable to come back year after year. Put yours in an area that can get afternoon shade. That may help. You could also start seeds each year and you will always have them.