Lupinus nanus


Lupinus nanus, is a species of lupine native to the western United States. It is found natively in California, Nevada, and on Steens Mountain in eastern Oregon. It tends to be found growing on slopes and in open or disturbed areas below 1300 meters. It grows 6 to 20 inches tall with blue flowers containing white or yellow spots. It is an annual plant that blooms in the months of March, April and May. It contains anagyrine and is considered toxic if directly ingested. Among the biologically active chemicals found in the plant are genistein, 2'-hydroxygenistein, luteone and wighteone.

Variation

Lupinus nanus has a large genetic variability. There are three accepted subspecies of Lupinus nanus:
Lupinus nanus is often found in mixed populations with Lupinus bicolor, Lupinus pachylobus, Lupinus micranthus, and Lupinus vallicola. In addition to the subspecies above, variations include