Lupinus albifrons (Silver Lupine)
Very showy and fragrant, Lupinus albifrons (Silver Lupine) is a fast-growing, evergreen perennial shrub boasting silky, gray to silvery palmate leaves and narrow, elongated clusters of blue to magenta, pea-shaped flowers.
Very showy and fragrant, Lupinus albifrons (Silver Lupine) is a fast-growing, evergreen perennial shrub boasting silky, gray to silvery palmate leaves and narrow, elongated clusters of blue to magenta, pea-shaped flowers. Blooming in spring to early summer, they are borne on the upper 3-12 in. (7-30 cm) of stout, ascending stems, well above the foliage. They are attractive to butterflies and many pollinators. Silver Lupine tends to be short-lived in gardens, about 3-4 years. However, if the conditions are right, with full sun and excellent drainage to avoid root rot, Silver Lupine will be long-lived and look breathtaking when planted in mass.
- Grows up to 3-5 ft. tall (90-150 cm) and 4-5 ft. wide (120-150 cm).
- Thrives in full sun in sandy or rocky, dry, well-drained soils. Will tolerate some water but is best on the dry side. Water maximum twice per month in summer after the plant is established.
- Low maintenance, this plant is also deer resistant.
- An excellent choice for informal gardens, prairies, and meadows.
- Propagate by seed. Plant immediately or stratify.
- Native to California, Oregon, and northern Baja.
- All parts, particularly the seeds, may cause severe discomfort if ingested. Toxic only if eaten in large quantities. Wear gloves and wash your hands after handling.
- Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses, toxic to humans.
Requirements
Hardiness | 6 – 10 |
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Climate Zones | 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Perennials, Shrubs |
Plant Family | Lupinus – Lupines |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early) |
Height | 3' – 5' (90cm – 150cm) |
Spread | 4' – 5' (120cm – 150cm) |
Spacing | 60″ (150cm) |
Water Needs | Low |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy, Evergreen |
Native Plants | United States, California, Pacific Northwest, Oregon |
Tolerance | Deer, Dry Soil, Rocky Soil |
Attracts | Birds, Butterflies |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders |
Garden Styles | Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |