1. Stinging Lupine – Lupinus hirsutissimus
(loo-PIE-nus her-soot-TEE-see-mus)
Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
Native to: Coastal CA from central CA to Baja; sometimes common in dry, rocky areas, burns,
thickets at desert edges.
Growth characteristics: herbaceous annual wildflower mature height: 1-3 ft. mature width:1 ft.
Annual with erect habit and somewhat fleshy stems. Stems & leaves covered with sharp stinging
hairs that can cause a rash in susceptible people. Note: Like all lupines, all parts of this plant can be toxic if eaten.
Blooms March-May. Flowers are dark pink/magenta fading to purple – very showy.
Flower shape typical for lupines. Seeds are large, hairy.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: One of our most unique & showy local lupines. Good in native prairies or
wildflower meadows with other annuals and native grasses. An interesting addition to mixed beds.
Good in large pots or planters. A charming and under-appreciated plant.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native lupines.
Attracts: Excellent habitat plant: hummingbirds, bees and butterflies collect the nectar. Several
species of Blue butterflies use as larval food source. Doves & other ground-foraging birds eat seeds.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun (or nearly so)
Any well-drained local soil; any local pH
Needs winter/spring water (rain may be adequate except in dry years); little to no
water after plant begins flowering (Zone 1 to 2)
none
Relatively easy in warm, sunny position. Best to plant in place as most lupines
resent being transplanted. Use gloves when handling mature plants.
Management:
Propagation: from seed: soak seeds in hot water overnight to enhance germination.
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 10, 13, 16, 19
1/14/08
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