Whitewhorl Lupine
Scientific Name: Lupinus densiflorus Benth. var. aureus (Kellogg) Munz
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| General Information | |
|---|---|
| Usda Symbol | LUDEA |
| Group | Dicot |
| Life Cycle | Annual |
| Growth Habits | Forb/herb |
| Native Locations | LUDEA |
Plant Guide
Use soil moisture sensors to measure the soil moisture of Whitewhorl Lupine.
Fact Sheet
Uses
Erosion control: Whitewhorl lupine is useful for soil renovation and stabilization. Beautification: This plant is an excellent ornamental for parks and homes.
Status
Please consult the PLANTS Web site and your State Department of Natural Resources for this plant’s current status (e.g. threatened or endangered species, state noxious status, and wetland indicator values).
Description
Lupinus densiflorus Benth. var. aureus (Kellogg) Munz, whitewhorl lupine, is an annual herb growing from 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 feet tall, with brilliant white to yellow flowers.
Adaptation and Distribution
Distribution , Use soil moisture sensors to measure the soil moisture of Whitewhorl Lupine.
Distribution
Like other lupines, whitewhorl lupines are well-adapted to open, sunny locations, and will tolerate moderate amounts of water. Their symbiotic relationship with rhizobium, a root bacterium, enables them to fix nitrogen in the soil, enabling the plants to survive in nutrient-depleted or infertile soils, including alkaline clays and rocky outcrops. Whitewhorl lupine is distributed throughout California. For a current distribution map, please consult the Plant Profile page for this species on the PLANTS Website.
Establishment
The herb provides abundant quantities of seed in conspicuous pods; these may be gathered when ripe, then shelled, dried, and stored until planting time. Most seeds will germinate without pretreatment, although germination will be enhanced by soaking the seeds in boiling hot water just before planting. Treat seeds prior to planting with the proper legume inoculant. Sow seed by broadcasting in winter or early spring. Whitewhorl lupine is subject to mildew and root rot and requires good drainage, otherwise it is not particular about the soil. It grows best in cool locations and accepts moderate amounts of water during early growth, but not direct overhead sprinkling (semi-dry conditions are best). The plant can also be grown from basal cuttings which are taken and planted out in the spring.
Management
Remove faded flowers unless self-sown seedlings are desired; otherwise, little or no subsequent care should be required.