Arroyo Lupine

The arroyo lupine (Lupinus succulentus) is a beautiful and popular wildflower native to California. It's known for its showy spikes of purple, blue, or white flowers that bloom in late winter to late spring. Here's some more information about it:

Appearance:

• Tall and fleshy annual wildflower, growing up to 2-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide.

• Dense spikes of pea-shaped flowers, usually purple-blue with a white or pink patch on their banners.

• Lush foliage of palmately compound leaves with 7-9 smooth, dark-green leaflets.

Habitat and growing conditions:

• Native to California, Arizona, and Baja California.

• Thrives in full sun to part shade in moist, well-drained soil.

• Tolerates a variety of soils, including clay and heavy soils.

• Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Uses:

• Popular ornamental plant for gardens and meadows.

• Nitrogen-fixing plant that improves soil quality.

• Easy to grow from seed and reseeds readily.

Toxicity:

• All parts of the arroyo lupine are poisonous, including the seeds, leaves, and flowers.

• Exercise caution around children and pets.

Interesting facts:

• The name "arroyo" refers to the canyons where these wildflowers often grow.

• The hollow leaves of the arroyo lupine inspired its other common name, "hollowleaf annual lupine."

• Arroyo lupines are an important food source for many native animals, including deer, rabbits, and quail.

While California is the primary state where the arroyo lupine (Lupinus succulentus) is native, its range extends beyond just the Golden State. Here's a more detailed breakdown of its native states:

Primary range: California (widespread)
Secondary range:
Arizona: Occurs in the western and southern parts of the state, primarily in lower elevation areas.
Baja California: Found in the northern portion of the peninsula, particularly in coastal habitats.
Additionally, arroyo lupines can be found growing in other places outside their native range, but these populations are likely introduced or naturalized rather than truly native.

So, to summarize, the arroyo lupine is naturally found in three states: California (mainland and Channel Islands), Arizona, and Baja California.