Lupinus Arcticus

Arctic lupin is a hardy northern perennial with palmate leaves and upright racemes of rich blue to violet pea flowers. It occurs from Alaska and western Canada into the subarctic, colonising open ground, roadsides and recently disturbed sites where its nitrogen-fixing roots help enrich poor soils. The flowers bring strong colour to meadow and naturalistic planting, while the seed can remain viable for many years behind a hard coat. Cool conditions, full sun and dependable moisture suit it best; all parts, particularly the seeds, should be regarded as harmful if eaten.