Lupinus arboreus Sims

Yellow bush lupine, bush lupine

Yellow bush lupines are native to western North America. Like other members of the extensive pea family, these lupines and their symbiotic bacteria trap atmospheric nitrogen, converting it to a form that provides the plant with necessary nutrients. Hence lupines can grow in areas, like sand dunes, that are too deficient in nitrogen to support other plants. A bright yellow dye can be extracted from the flowers. Outside of their native habitat, yellow bush lupines are now considered to be invasives.

Plants: These lupines can reach 5–6½′ (1.5–2 m) in height, and about 4′ (1.2 m) around, significantly larger than other lupine species. They have woody stems and produce deep roots which help to stabilize coastal sandy areas.

Leaves: Silky, dark green or gray-green, palm-like in appearance, with 5-12 leaflets on each leaf. Each leaflet is ½–2 ⨉ ⅛–⅜″ (1.5–6 cm ⨉ 4–10 mm).

Flowers: Flowers occur in spikes 6″ (15 cm) long. They have a sweet scent. Usually yellow, they may be lilac or blue instead.

Fruits: Hairy pods 1½–2½″ (4–7 cm) long.

Habitats: Coastal bluffs, sand dunes and inland.

Online References:

 

Lupinus arboreus description by Thomas H. Kent, not updated.

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