Elegant Lupine

(Lupinus elegans)

Elegant Lupine (Lupinus elegans)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lupinus elegans, commonly known as elegant lupine or Mexican lupine, is a perennial herb native to the high-altitude pine-oak forests and grasslands of Mexico and Guatemala. It can reach up to 4 feet in height and 3 feet in width, with a branching stem structure. Elegant lupine is characterized by its palmately compound leaves and showy spikes of blue to violet flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Elegant lupine is valued for its ornamental flowers and ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility. It is used in habitat restoration projects, particularly in areas affected by volcanic activity and agricultural disturbance, and can also be found in native plant gardens and as a border plant. This lupine prefers well-drained soils, moderate water, and full sun to partial shade conditions. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases, especially in humid climates. In cultivation outside its native range, care should be taken as it can become invasive.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Blue
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

High-altitude pine-oak forests and grasslands

Other Names

Common Names: Elegant Lupine, Baja California Lupine, Blue Lupine

Scientific Names: , Lupinus elegans,

GBIF Accepted Name: