The tree lupin prefers a climate with moderate temperatures and can tolerate both warm and cool conditions. It thrives in areas with a mild climate and is adaptable to different altitudes. It can be found growing successfully at various elevations.
Common Name: Tree Lupin
The tree lupin, also known as Lupinus arboreus, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to California. It is nitrogen fixing and a good nurse crop, attracting bees with its flowering season from late winter to early summer. It prefers deep, loose soil and is tolerant of frost, making it a hardy plant for various environments.
Lupinus arboreus
Country of origin: California
Additional Information: - The tree lupin is known for its tall, spiky flower spikes and vibrant yellow flowers. - It is often used in coastal gardens as it can tolerate salty air and sandy soil. - The plant is known to attract butterflies and other pollinators. - Tree lupins are commonly used for erosion control due to their deep root systems. - In some regions, the plant is considered invasive and can spread rapidly.
Deep loose soil is preferred by the tree lupin.
The tree lupin is an evergreen, perennial shrub or small tree to a height of about 2 m. It is native to California. This attractive plant is nitrogen fixing and a good nurse crop. It is tolerant of frost and does better with some summer watering. It prefers a deep loose soil. In the UK it has become a volunteer of limestone quarries.
It is a good bee forage, flowering from late winter to early summer. A second flowering occurs in the autumn. No data is available on its value as a stock feed but it is likely that it is too toxic. Hungry kangaroos will not eat it which is an advantage in many situations. It can be cut hard to supply mulch rich in nitrogen.
It can be grown from cuttings but growing from seed is easy.