lupine flower from seed Sicklekeel Lupine Seeds (Lupinus albicaulis) — Northwest Meadowscapes

lupine flower from seed Sicklekeel Lupine Seeds (Lupinus albicaulis) — Northwest MeadowscapesSicklekeel lupine reminds us of its close relative, riverbank lupine. The two have some physical similarities, and a tolerance for life in difficult places. However sicklekeel in our experience comes in a wider range of flower color variations (from white to deep blue). And possibly more notable, sicklekeel lupine tends to show up more frequently within existing vegetation on dry grassy slopes (as opposed to riverbank lupines tendency for suddenly

Sicklekeel lupine reminds us of its close relative, riverbank lupine. The two have some physical similarities, and a tolerance for life in difficult places. However sicklekeel in our experience comes in a wider range of flower color variations (from white to deep blue). And possibly more notable, sicklekeel lupine tends to show up more frequently within existing vegetation on dry grassy slopes (as opposed to riverbank lupine’s tendency for suddenly appearing on disturbed open ground).

This short-lived perennial or biennial grows from sea level to mid elevations along the Pacific crest -- from British Columbia to Mexico. The upright flowering stems rise up to about 2-feet in height with the rest of the foliage remaining lower growing.  

Sicklekeel lupine is a caterpillar host plant for many beautiful butterflies, including several blues and hairstreaks (family Lycaenidae), and sulphurs (family Pieridae). It’s quite deer resistant, and a favorite of bumble bees. 

This plant is a compelling and enjoyable companion for your garden, for steep sunny embankments, for hot areas next to pavement, and for the rewilding of dump locations, exposed ditches, and industrial superfund sites. It brings beauty everywhere it goes and asks for nothing in return. 

Approximate 20 to 30 seeds (0.5-grams).