About Lupinus truncatus Nutt. ex Hook. & Arn.
Taxonomic Identity and Growth Form
Lupinus truncatus Nutt. ex Hook. & Arn. is an annual herb that grows no taller than 0.5 meters (1.6 feet).
Leaf Structure
Each of its leaves is palmate, composed of 5 to 8 narrow, linear leaflets. These leaflets are 2 to 4 centimeters long and only a few millimeters wide.
Leaflet Distinguishing Feature
Most leaflets have truncate tips, meaning their ends look sharply cut off and squared off; this defining feature gives the species its scientific name.
Inflorescence Characteristics
The plant's inflorescence is a raceme holding widely spaced flowers, each roughly one centimeter long.
Flower Coloration
Each flower is magenta or reddish purple, with a yellowish or magenta patch on its banner.
Fruit Characteristics
The fruit it produces is a hairy legume pod around 3 centimeters long and half a centimeter wide.
