Lupine

About the Lupine

Their name comes from Latin lupus (wolf) because they were thought to wolf down soil nutrients - actually they fix nitrogen from the air, improving soil. Russell lupines created the iconic garden varieties in the 1930s. They are in the pea family and produce seed pods. Over 200 species. They are poisonous to livestock if eaten in quantity. They are important pioneer species in ecological succession. New Zealands South Island has spectacular wild lupine displays. They attract bees and butterflies. They prefer acidic soil and cool conditions.