Wasowski, Sally and Andy
Lupinus argenteus Pursh
Silvery lupine, Silver-stem lupine
Fabaceae (Pea Family)
The
perennial silver-stem lupine bears from one to several, occasionally branched stems, each 1-2 ft. tall and covered with hairs. Stalked, palmately-compound, silvery-green leaves line the stems. Violet, pea-like flowers are arranged in a showy
spike, up to 8 in. long, atop the stems. The flowers of silver-stem lupine are sometimes pink and rarely white. This species spreads quickly to form colonies.
Silvery Lupine is a member of the pea family (Fabaceae), which includes trees, shrubs, herbs, and vines with
compound or occasionally
simple leaves and flowers usually in clusters.
Image Gallery:
2 photo(s) available
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Herb Leaf: Gray-Green
Flower:
Fruit: Size Class: 1-3 ft.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: Purple
Bloom Time: Jun , Jul
Distribution
USA: AZ , CA , CO , ID , KS , MT , NE , NV , NM , ND , OK , OR , SD , UT , WA , WY
Canada: AB Native Distribution: E.c. OR & n.e. CA to AZ, e. to Alt., w. ND, n.w. NE & NM
Native Habitat: Stream valleys; dry roadsides; rocky prairies; open pine woods
USDA Native Status: L48(N), CAN(N) Growing Conditions
Water Use: Low
Light Requirement: Sun , Part Shade , Shade
Soil Moisture: Dry
CaCO3 Tolerance: Medium
Soil Description: Rocky soils.
Benefit
Use Wildlife: Silvery lupine in an important food source for butterflies.
Warning: Plants in the
genus Lupinus, especially the seeds, can be toxic to humans and animals if ingested. Sensitivity to a toxin varies with a person’s age, weight, physical condition, and individual susceptibility. Children are most vulnerable because of their curiosity and small size. Toxicity can vary in a plant according to season, the plant’s different parts, and its stage of growth; and plants can absorb toxic substances, such as herbicides, pesticides, and pollutants from the water, air, and soil.
Conspicuous Flowers: yes
Attracts: Birds , Hummingbirds
2009-02-20
