Miniature lupine (Lupinus bicolor, Bot. Reg. 13: t. 1109 (1827))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Lindl.

Bibliography: Bot. Reg. 13: t. 1109 (1827)

Year: 1827

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Lupinus

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: W. Canada to Mexico (Baja California), NE. Guadalupe

Description

Miniature lupine, scientifically known as Lupinus bicolor, is an intriguing and charming member of the Fabaceae family. First described in 1827 by the botanist Lindl., this species has captivated plant enthusiasts and botanists alike with its unique characteristics and widespread presence across varying terrains.

The Lupinus bicolor is prevalent from Western Canada through to Mexico, extending even to the arid landscapes of Baja California and the Northeast regions of Guadalupe. This geographical range highlights the plant’s adaptability to different climates and conditions, making it a resilient and fascinating species to study and cultivate.

The miniature lupine typically thrives in open, sunny locations, often found in fields, prairies, and along roadsides. Its delicate, bi-colored flowers, usually blue and white, bloom exuberantly, adding a splash of color to its natural habitats. The plant’s height is modest, which, along with its vibrant flowers, gives it the “miniature” designation.

As a member of the Fabaceae family, the miniature lupine contributes to soil health by fixing nitrogen, an essential process that enriches the soil and supports the growth of other plant species. This ecological benefit underscores the plant’s importance beyond its aesthetic appeal.

In terms of cultivation, Lupinus bicolor is relatively low-maintenance. It flourishes best in well-drained soils and needs full sunlight for optimal growth. Gardeners and landscapers value it not only for its beauty but also for its beneficial role in improving soil quality.

Overall, the miniature lupine stands out as a versatile and attractive plant, offering both ecological benefits and visual delight. Its extensive distribution from Western Canada to Mexico is a testament to its adaptability and resilience, making it a noteworthy species within the botanical world.

Common Names

Eng: bicolored lupine, miniature lupine, two-coloured lupine, lindley’s lupine, bicoloured lupine, field lupine, small-flowered lupine
Fra: lupin bicolore
En: Miniature lupine, Bicolored lupine, Two-coloured lupine, Lindley’s lupine, Bicoloured lupine, Field lupine, Small-flowered lupine
Ar: ترمس ثنائي اللون
Fr: Lupin bicolore

Synonyms

Distribution

• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Mexican Pacific Is. (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Washington (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 10, 2015 by EOL − kiloueka (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 28, 2015 by EOL − Don Loarie (cc-by)

Taken Apr 9, 2022 by Tyler Nicholas (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 29, 2020 by Dory Mansfield (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 9, 2022 by Mary_T (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Feb 28, 2015 by EOL − Don Loarie (cc-by)

Taken Jan 2, 2021 by Shelby Warfe (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 28, 2020 by Seraphina (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2022 by ren m (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 2, 2012 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Mar 24, 2016 by EOL − Adam Searcy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 14, 2016 by EOL − Adam Huggins (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 12, 2016 by EOL − Damon Tighe (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 10, 2016 by EOL − Di (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 10, 2016 by EOL − Di (cc-by-nc-sa)

Fruit

Taken Apr 3, 2014 by EOL − Don Loarie (cc-by)

Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 8, 2011 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 8, 2011 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 26, 2013 by EOL − Don Loarie (cc-by)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2964576)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:504198-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lupinus bicolor Lindl.)

Specifications

Growth