Family: Fabaceae
Author: Benth.
Bibliography: Trans. Hort. Soc. London, ser. 2, 1: 410 (1834 publ. 1835)
Year: 1835
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Lupinus
Vegetable: False
Observations: Oregon to Mexico (Baja California)
Description
Foothill lupine, scientifically recognized as Lupinus albifrons, is a captivating member of the Fabaceae family, celebrated for its vibrant blossoms and ecological significance. This perennial plant was first documented in the early 19th century by the renowned botanist Benth., with a formal description published in the “Transactions of the Horticultural Society of London” series in 1834.
Native to the diverse landscapes from Oregon to Baja California in Mexico, Foothill lupine thrives in a variety of habitats, reflecting its adaptability and ecological resilience. Its common presence across these regions underscores its integral role in local flora.
The plant is easily identifiable by its striking inflorescences that showcase an array of purples, blues, and occasionally white hues, making it a popular choice for wildflower enthusiasts and naturalists. The foliage, characteristically silver-green and covered with fine hairs, adds to the plant’s ornamental appeal and helps in water conservation, a crucial adaptation to its often arid environments.
Beyond its aesthetic value, Lupinus albifrons plays a pivotal role in its ecosystem. As a member of the legume family, it is adept at nitrogen fixation, a process that enriches soil fertility and supports the growth of neighboring plants. This symbiotic relationship is essential for maintaining healthy, vibrant plant communities, particularly in nutrient-poor soils.
The geographical range of Lupinus albifrons spans various climatic conditions, from the temperate regions of Oregon to the more arid zones of Baja California, showcasing its remarkable adaptability. Despite the challenges posed by diverse environmental factors, the Foothill lupine flourishes, contributing both to the ecological diversity and visual splendor of its habitats.
In summary, Lupinus albifrons or Foothill lupine, is not only a visual cornerstone of the western North American landscape but also an ecological asset. Its historical botanical documentation and enduring presence from Oregon to Mexico highlight the plant’s significance within the flora community and its enduring contributions to the health of its native ecosystems.
Common Names
Eng: foothill lupine, silver lupine
En: Foothill lupine, Silver lupine
Ar: ترمس أبيض الأوراق
Lt: Kalvinis lubinas
Synonyms
Distribution
- California (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Oregon (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jun 8, 2020 by Yang Chen (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 25, 2019 by Tilmann Weckesser (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 30, 2022 by Andrea Harvey (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 11, 2019 by house mil (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 18, 2019 by ramos patricia (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Leaf
Taken Jun 14, 2021 by Eugene Kovalenko (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 12, 2022 by Tokasha Huskey (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 24, 2019 by Anita Rose (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 16, 2019 by sacredspirit (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 21, 2019 by Messina Alejandra (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Oct 3, 2019 by jas jas (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 3, 2022 by Brittany Ulrich (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 18, 2020 by Cabello Laura (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 16, 2014 by EOL − JK Johnson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 14, 2019 by LN Santi (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Aug 5, 2016 by Lilian Car (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 26, 2012 by EOL − Rebecca Marschall (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 9, 2012 by EOL − Ken-ichi Ueda (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 9, 2012 by EOL − Ken-ichi Ueda (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 30, 2012 by EOL − Ken-ichi Ueda (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 1, 2016 by EOL − Gerald and Buff Corsi (cc-by-nc-sa)
Bark
Taken Mar 22, 2016 by EOL − Donna Pomeroy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 12, 2016 by EOL − Donna Pomeroy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 17, 2009 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30008684-2)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2964669)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lupinus albifrons Benth.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Subshrub, Shrub