Lupine
LUPIN
Lupinus spp. L.
Description: Lupines are annual and perennial plants in the Pea Family (Fabaceae). There are 14 species recognized by plant taxonomic authorities in Utah. Among those species there are numerous recognized varieties. One annual native species, Rusty Lupine, and three perennial native species, Silvery, Spurred, and Silky Lupine are presented here because they are common native plants in much of Utah. Lupines have alternate, palmately compound leaves with slender stipules at the base of the leaf stalks (petioles). Flowers are in terminal racemes (flowers on pedicels off of an unbranched main stalk). Flowers are two-lipped (irregular) and petals are generally blue or blue-purple. Flowers have 10 stamens united by the filaments, 5 short filaments and 5 long filaments. Flowering occurs from spring through the summer. Lupines produce laterally compressed legumes (pods).
General Information: Most Lupines are not toxic but some contain toxic compounds that are poisonous, especially to sheep. Certain alkaloids in Lupines also cause birth defects such as cleft palate and skeletal deformities when consumed at specific times during gestation. Silvery, Spurred, and Silky Lupine are recognized as species that are particularly problematic due to piperidine and quinolizidine alkaloid poisoning. King’s Lupine (Lupinus kingii), another Lupine found in Southern Utah, was used by Navajo weavers to make a greenish yellow dye. Species Referenced: L. argenteus Pursh - Silvery Lupine LUAR3 L. caudatus Kellogg - Spurred, Tailcup Lupine LUCA L. pusillus Pursh - Rusty Lupine LUPU L. sericeus Pursh - Silky Lupine LUSE4 103
FABACEAE
Distribution and Habitat: Lupines are found in all areas of Utah from creosote bush and blackbrush to mixed-conifer and alpine meadow communities at elevations from 2,460’-11,500’.