Lupinus arbustus

Common Names

Longspur Lupine, Spurred Lupine, Spur Lupine

Summary

Longspur lupine is a native perennial herb of western North America with erect stems up to 70 cm tall and palmate leaves of 7–13 leaflets; an open inflorescence up to 18 cm long bears whorls of flowers in colors including white, yellow, blue, purple, and pink, with a spur at the calyx and a hairy legume pod as fruit measuring 2–3 cm long.

Habitat includes sagebrush deserts and open forest areas; it prefers full sun to partial shade with moderate moisture; propagation is by seed, with fresh seeds needing no treatment while stored seeds may require scarification or hot water; flowers attract bees and other pollinators, and the plant is noted for colorful displays and heady fragrance.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

8 inches-2.5 feet

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun; tolerates partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained soil

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Bloom Color

Blue to violet, including white, yellow, purple, pink, and cream

Bloom Time

Spring to Summer

Foliage Color

Green or gray

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds: Fresh seeds need no treatment; stored seeds scarification or hot water.

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies