Family: Fabaceae
Author: Pursh
Bibliography: Fl. Amer. Sept. 2: 468 (1813)
Year: 1813
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Lupinus
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. Canada to W. & WC. U.S.A.
Description
The Silky lupine, scientifically known as Lupinus sericeus, is an enchanting member of the Fabaceae family. First described by the illustrious botanist Frederick Traugott Pursh in his seminal work “Flora Americae Septentrionalis” in 1813, this perennial herb has captivated botanists and plant enthusiasts for over two centuries.
The Silky lupine is primarily observed across a wide geographical range, extending from Western Canada to the western and west-central United States. Its adaptability to various environments within these regions is a testament to its resilience and versatility. This plant often graces open woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes, thriving in the well-drained soils and sunlit exposures that these habitats offer.
One of the most striking features of Lupinus sericeus is its silky, hair-covered foliage, which not only gives the plant its common name but also adds a delicate texture to its overall appearance. The plant typically grows to a height of 20-50 cm and produces beautiful, vibrant blue to purple flowers arranged in dense, elongate clusters called racemes. These blossoms not only add a pop of color to their native landscapes but also play a crucial role in the local ecosystems, serving as a vital nectar source for a variety of pollinators including bees and butterflies.
Apart from its ecological significance, the Silky lupine holds historical and cultural value. Indigenous peoples and early settlers recognized the plant for its potential uses, although it is essential to note that many species within the Lupinus genus contain alkaloids that can be toxic if ingested.
While the Silky lupine continues to intrigue botanists with its unique characteristics and widespread presence, it also provides immense aesthetic appeal for horticulturists looking to introduce native flora into garden settings. With its silvery foliage and striking blooms, Lupinus sericeus is a favored choice for naturalized and wildlife-friendly gardens.
In summary, the Silky lupine (Lupinus sericeus) stands out as a resilient, visually captivating, and ecologically important member of the Fabaceae family. Its detailed documentation by Pursh over two centuries ago reflects the enduring fascination and admiration that this plant commands, owing to its widespread distribution and notable presence in diverse habitats across Western Canada and the Western and West-central United States.
Common Names
Eng: silky lupine, pursh’s lupine, pursh’s silky lupine
Fra: lupin soyeux
En: Silky lupine, Pursh’s lupine, Pursh’s silky lupine
Fr: Lupin soyeux
Synonyms
Distribution
- Alberta (native)
- Arizona (native)
- British Columbia (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oregon (native)
- South Dakota (native)
- Utah (native)
- Washington (native)
- Wyoming (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jun 11, 2022 by Madelyn Passmore (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 13, 2021 by Barb T (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 13, 2021 by Barb T (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 21, 2020 by Aran Lovato (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jul 30, 2015 by EOL − Daniel George (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 24, 2015 by EOL − stellarose (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 24, 2015 by EOL − stellarose (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 29, 2013 by EOL − afowler (cc-by-nc)
Leaf
Taken Jun 12, 2006 by Andrew Gagg (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 4, 2021 by Louis Fourie (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 4, 2021 by Louis Fourie (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 1, 2021 by Elizabeth Schueman (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 13, 2021 by Barb T (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jun 4, 2021 by Louis Fourie (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:317394-2)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2964333)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lupinus sericeus Pursh)
Specifications
Growth form>: Multiple Stem
Growth habit>: Subshrub, Forb/herb
Growth rate>: Rapid
Growth
Ph maximum: 7.5
Ph minimum: 7.0