Longleaf Bush Lupine

(Lupinus longifolius)

Longleaf Bush Lupine (Lupinus longifolius)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lupinus longifolius, commonly known as Longleaf Bush Lupine, is a perennial shrub native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems of southern California and northern Baja California. It typically grows to a height of 5 feet (1.5 meters) and is characterized by its bushy, erect form with green or gray-green foliage covered in silvery hairs. The plant produces striking purple or blue flowers, occasionally featuring a white patch, which bloom in narrow racemes during the spring and early summer. The flowers are followed by dark, hairy legume pods that contain 6-8 seeds each.

Longleaf Bush Lupine is valued for its showy flowers and ability to adapt to dry conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. It is often used in restoration projects to stabilize soils and provide habitat for native fauna. In cultivation, it requires well-drained soils, minimal water once established, and thrives in full sun to partial shade. While generally low maintenance, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases in poorly drained soils and may attract aphids. Gardeners should be aware that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Blue, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems

Other Names

Common Names: Long-Leaved Lupine, Long Leaf Lupine

Scientific Names: , Lupinus longifolius, Lupinus albifrons var. longifolius, Lupinus brittonii, Lupinus chamissonis var. longifolius, Lupinus mollisifolius,

GBIF Accepted Name: