Lupinus succulentus, Arroyo Lupine

Arroyo Lupine has dark green, six-fingered leaves and spikes of beautiful purple-blue flowers that bloom in winter through spring. This annual is popular in gardens because it is the most water-tolerant of all lupines. A fast grower, it will show up when the rains start and reach 2 to 3 feet tall but the amount of fertility and moisture generally dictates the height of the plant. It prefers full sun and moist clay or heavy soils. To start it from seed, soak overnight in hot water before planting. Seeds should be planted about a quarter inch deep. Once established it will self-seed, often profusely. The plants compete with weeds and add nitrogen to the soil. Beautiful when combined with Blue Flax and California poppies. Deer will eat lupines.