Lupinus Densiflorus Aureus, commonly known as Golden Lupine, is an annual wildflower that belongs to the Legume family. It is commonly misidentified as Lupinus microcarpus densiflorus, which is a variety that has less striking, pale yellow to cream flowers that is also native to California, but also Oregon, Washington and parts of Canada. ) This variety is a selection of the densely-flowered lupine, distinguished by its vibrant golden-yellow blooms. It is native to solely California and thrives in the region’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by wet winters and dry summers.
Golden Lupine grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet, with upright stems covered in palmate leaves composed of multiple slender leaflets. The flowers are densely packed in vertical spikes, creating a showy display that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Blooming occurs in late spring to early summer, adding bright color to grasslands, open woodlands, and coastal scrub habitats.
It plays an important role in nitrogen fixation, improving soil fertility. This makes it a valuable plant for restoration projects and as a cover crop in native gardens. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun, and while it is drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from winter rains or occasional irrigation in drier regions.
Gardeners value this lupine for its aesthetic appeal and ease of cultivation. It is often grown from seed, which germinates readily when sown directly into the soil in fall or early spring. Beyond its visual beauty, it contributes to biodiversity by supporting native insects and providing a splash of gold in natural landscapes or wildflower gardens.
Lupine seeds have a hard seed coat and benefit from cold stratification to improve germination. To stratify the seeds, place the seeds in a moist paper towel or sand inside a plastic bag and refrigerate them for about 4-6 weeks before planting. This mimics the winter conditions needed for the seeds to break dormancy.
Annual
This if for 25 seeds
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