How to identify Lupines (Lupinus)

Photo By Liam O'Brien , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

How to identify Lupines (Lupinus)

Lupines, also known as Great basin lupine

Lupines species typically bear palmate leaves composed of 5 to 10 leaflets arranged around a central axis, giving a hand-like appearance. The plants showcase erect spikes densely packed with pea-like flowers, varying in color from white, yellow, blue, to vibrant purples. Flower spikes can rise to approximately 1 to 4 feet (30 to 120 cm) above the foliage. The foliage may grow to a similar height but usually remains slightly shorter. Seed pods follow flowering, containing several seeds that can be brown or mottled.

Lifespan: Annual

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Semi-evergreen

Quickly Identify Lupines

Palmate leaves with 5-10 leaflets radiating from a central axis, resembling a hand.

Erect spikes of pea-like flowers in various colors, rising 1-4 feet (30-120 cm) above foliage.

Seed pods with several brown or mottled seeds, elongated and splitting along two seams.

Alternate leaves, simple or palmately divided, with smooth or hairy surface, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long.

Terminal clusters of pea-like flowers, vibrant in colors, 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) long.

Detailed Traits of Lupines

Leaf Features

The leaves of lupines are notable for their alternate arrangement on the stem. They can be either simple or palmately divided, generally characterized by multiple leaflets radiating from a central point. Each leaflet is elongated, typically measuring 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in length. The leaf surface is smooth or finely hairy, with a vibrant green coloration that may vary slightly depending on the specific species. The veins are clearly defined, providing structural support and contributing to the leaf's overall texture.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Lupines produces stunning terminal, elongated clusters of flowers that are typically 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) in length. The pea-like blossoms exhibit a vibrant range of colors, including blue, purple, pinkish, and white. Each flower has a unique shape with a standard petal, wings, and a keel, characteristic of the Fabaceae family. Blooming from late spring to early summer, these flowers often lack a strong scent but are particularly attractive to pollinators.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of lupines is an elongated and flattened pod, typically bearing several seeds. These pods can often be seen changing color from green to tan as they mature, spanning roughly 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) in length. Upon ripening, the pods may exhibit a slight curvature and are known for their characteristic splitting action, which occurs along two seams, dispersing the seeds. The seeds inside are generally small, round to ovular in shape, and can exhibit a variety of colors, often speckled or mottled.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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