Lupinus micranthus Seeds | Small Lupine

Small Lupine seeds (Lupinus micranthus)

LATIN NAME: Lupinus micranthus

COMMON NAME: Small Lupine

Plant Profile

Lupinus micranthus, commonly known as Small Lupine, is a low, tufted, perennial in the pea family. Small lupine flares blue and white flower spikes above soft, palmate leaves, the whole plant standing in the fine, bright look of the dry meadow. It is a plant of open, sunny, light, well-drained ground. Together these qualities explain its long-standing appeal to gardeners.

Science & Biotechnology

Within the pea family, Lupinus micranthus is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. It is the kind of species that plant scientists reach for when they need reliable material for propagation and selection studies.

Uses & Benefits

Small Lupine works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Small lupine is a bright, useful herb of dry meadow and study collection. It is a bright, useful herb of open, sunny, light, well-drained garden. Lupine seeds germinate well in a gritty mix kept lightly moist. Once settled, it thrives on neglect more than on fussing.

Lupins are protein-rich legume crops, lupini beans being a Mediterranean snack after debittering, while the ornamental spires feed bumblebees; alkaloid-rich garden types are not for the table without processing.

Growing from Seed

Seed is the natural starting point for Small Lupine, and the process is uncomplicated. Scatter the seed evenly over a loose seed compost, cover to no more than its own depth, and keep the pot moist and bright. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.

Our Take

Few garden plants carry such a documented history of use as this one does. The medicinal tradition behind this species, outlined above, is a large part of its interest. Its wants are few — a sunny spot, soil that drains, and time to settle in.

Flower Seeds