Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.Agardh

Scientific Name and Common Name

Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.Agardh, a lupine species, is commonly known as broadleaf lupine.

Native Range and Habitat Occurrence

It is native to western North America, ranging from British Columbia south to Baja California and east to New Mexico, where it is common and occurs in multiple habitat types.

Subtaxa Classification and Variation

This species includes multiple subtaxa, which are classified as either subspecies or varieties; some of these subtaxa are common, while others are rare, and they differ in morphological characteristics.

General Growth Form

Overall, broadleaf lupine is an erect perennial herb.

Size and Texture

It grows between 30 centimeters and over two meters tall, and its texture ranges from hairy to nearly hairless.

Leaf Structure

Each leaf is palmate, formed from several leaflets; on larger plants, individual leaflets can reach up to 10 centimeters in length.

Inflorescence Arrangement

The inflorescence holds many flowers, which are sometimes arranged in whorls.

Flower Characteristics

Each flower measures 1 to 2 centimeters long, and its color ranges from purple to blue to white; the spot on the flower's banner is yellowish, pinkish, or white.

Range of Lupinus latifolius var. barbatus

One rare subtaxon, Lupinus latifolius var. barbatus, is endemic only to the Modoc Plateau of northeastern California and the adjacent border areas of Oregon and Nevada.

Range of Subtaxon dudleyi

The subtaxon dudleyi is known to occur only in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Larval Host Role

This plant acts as a larval host for five butterfly species: Boisduval's blue, clouded sulphur, orange sulphur, Persius duskywing, and silvery blue.