Open Lupine
(Lupinus vallicola)
Open Lupine (Lupinus vallicola)
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Estimated Native Range
Summary
Lupinus vallicola, commonly known as Open Lupine, is an annual herb native to open grasslands and meadows, predominantly found in the Western United States. It typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). The plant has a distinctive appearance with palmately compound leaves and erect, showy flower spikes that are most commonly purple, blooming in the late spring to early summer months.
Open Lupine is valued for its vibrant flower displays and its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility. It is often used in wildflower meadows, borders, and as a part of native plant gardens to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and requires moderate to high amounts of water, thriving in well-drained soils. While generally easy to grow, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases in overly moist conditions and may be short-lived. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant invasiveness, but care should be taken as Lupinus species can be toxic to livestock and pets if ingested.CC BY-SA 4.0
Open Lupine is valued for its vibrant flower displays and its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility. It is often used in wildflower meadows, borders, and as a part of native plant gardens to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and requires moderate to high amounts of water, thriving in well-drained soils. While generally easy to grow, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases in overly moist conditions and may be short-lived. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant invasiveness, but care should be taken as Lupinus species can be toxic to livestock and pets if ingested.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 1-3 feet
- Width: 1-1.5 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White, Purple, Pink, Blue
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention:
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium, High
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Native to open grasslands and meadows
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Lupinus vallicola, Lupinus nanus var. vallicola, Lupinus persistens,
GBIF Accepted Name: Lupinus vallicola A.Heller