Lupinus microcarpus var. microcarpus

Common Names

Chick Lupine, Shaggy-Haired Chick Lupine, Valley Lupine, Wide-Bannered Lupin

Summary

Chick lupine is an annual herb native to western North America, including California, growing in open or disturbed habitats. It features palmately compound leaves with 5–11 leaflets and erect flower spikes with open whorls; blossoms range pink to purple and may be white or yellow, producing abundant blooms that attract pollinators.

Reaching 4–31 inches tall, it grows in full sun with moderate water and tolerates various soil drainage. Flowering occurs in spring; propagation is by seed, with fresh seeds requiring no treatment and stored seeds scarified or treated with hot water. In landscapes, it suits containers and general planting and provides wildlife value by attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Lifecycle

Annual

Height

4 inches to 2.5 feet

Spread

1 foot

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun.

Soil Type

Adaptable soil, tolerates fast, medium, or slow drainage, and a variety of soil types.

Soil Drainage

Medium drainage

Bloom Color

Pink to purple, often with white

Bloom Time

Spring

Growth Rate

Fast

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds; fresh seeds need no treatment; stored seeds scarification or hot water.

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, birds, and other pollinators