Lupinus succulentus (Arroyo Lupine)
Hollowleaf Annual Lupine, Hollow-leaf Annual Lupine, Arroyo Lupine, Succulent Lupine
Lupinus succulentus (Arroyo Lupine) is a tall and fleshy annual wildflower boasting dense spikes of sweetly fragrant pea-shaped flowers in late winter to late spring. The blossoms are usually purple-blue with a white or pink patch on their banners. They are borne above the lush foliage of palmately compound leaves with 7-9 smooth, dark-green leaflets. Attractive to bees and butterflies, the flowers are followed by small hairy pods which contain tiny brown seeds. When the pod has dried out and it is ready, the seeds are released by the pod erupting and expelling the seeds up to 20 feet (6 m). Native to California and adjacent sections of Arizona and Baja California, Arroyo Lupine can colonize disturbed areas, offering a bright floral show every year. Easily grown and quite adaptable, Arroyo Lupine competes with weeds and adds nitrogen to the soil. It is popular as a native landscaping plant. Plant in drifts for best effect.
- Grows up to 2-4 ft. tall (60-120 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm). Soil fertility and moisture generally dictate the height of the plant.
- Thrives in full sun to part shade in clay or heavy, moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates a variety of soils.
- An excellent choice for informal gardens, prairies, meadows, or wildlife gardens.
- No serious pest or disease issues. Too much water can cause mildew diseases on the leaves.
- Propagate by seed in fall. Germination is enhanced by scarification or nicking of the seed coat. Allow the seeds to soak overnight in warm water before planting.
- All parts, particularly the seeds, may cause severe discomfort if ingested. Toxic only if eaten in large quantities. Wear gloves and wash your hands after handling.
- Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses, toxic to humans.
- Native to Arizona, California, and Baja California.
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Requirements
Hardiness | 7
– 10 |
---|---|
Climate Zones | 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Annuals |
Plant Family | Lupinus - Lupines |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Early,Mid,Late) Winter |
Height | 2' – 4' (60cm – 120cm) |
Spread | 2' – 3' (60cm – 90cm) |
Spacing | 30" – 36" (75cm – 90cm) |
Water Needs | Low, Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Native Plants | United States, California, Southwest, Arizona |
Attracts | Birds, Butterflies |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |
Joe Decruyenaere, Flickr, Gerry Matthews, Shutterstock
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
Requirements
Hardiness | 7
– 10 |
---|---|
Climate Zones | 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Annuals |
Plant Family | Lupinus - Lupines |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Early,Mid,Late) Winter |
Height | 2' – 4' (60cm – 120cm) |
Spread | 2' – 3' (60cm – 90cm) |
Spacing | 30" – 36" (75cm – 90cm) |
Water Needs | Low, Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Native Plants | United States, California, Southwest, Arizona |
Attracts | Birds, Butterflies |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |