Information on Lupinus longifolius

1. Long-leaf Bush Lupine – Lupinus longifolius (loo-PIE-nus lon-ji-FO-lee-us)
© 2005 Michael W. Tuma © 2005 Michael W. Tuma
Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
Native to: Coastal S. CA from Santa Barbara to Baja; in coastal sage scrub, chaparral and oak
woodland of foothills and on bluffs along the seashore. Formerly Lupinus chamissonis var. longifolia
Growth characteristics: woody perennial shrub mature height: 4-5 ft. mature width: 4-5 ft.
Rounded erect shrub with spreading branches from a woody base. Leaves typical for lupine, hairy,
soft silver-green. Nice large bush lupine. Moderate growth rate after first year or so. Probably
short-lived in most gardens (4-5 years) but will reseed if happy.
Blooms/fruits: Blooms Apr-May (earlier in some years). Flowers typical for lupine, light blue to
violet with a yellow banner spot. Plants begin flowering after 1 year.
Uses in the garden: Attractive shrub for a dry garden. Silvery foliage provides a nice contrast to
other plants. Looks nice with other native shrubs or mixed with annuals & grasses. Good habitat
plant and nice addition to a costal sage scrub garden. La Cañada Lupine (hybrid: Lupinus longifolius
x mollisifolius) is also a good choice for the garden. Note: plants in the pea family can be toxic
when eaten, particularly the seeds.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native lupines, medium-size shrubs.
Attracts: Excellent bird habitat: provides cover and seeds for food. Bumble bees and butterflies
seek the nectar. Larval food source for Painted Lady butterfly.
Requirements:
Element Requirement
Sun Full sun to part-shade
Soil Must be well-drained
Water Low summer water once established; probably looks best if watered every month
once established
Fertilizer None – needs nutrient-poor soil; helps improve soil fertility (N)
Other
Management: Roots resent being disturbed - may be best to start your own from seed. Protect
young plants from birds, caterpillar & snail/slug damage.
Propagation: from seed: hot-water treatment; plant in pots or direct in prepared beds
by cuttings: ??
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 3, 10, 12, 13, 16 1/6/15
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