Lupinus albifrons
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Common NameSilver Bush Lupine
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CA NativeCalifornia Native
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Plant TypeShrub
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Size3' - 5' x 3' - 5'
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Flower ColorPurplish-Blue
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Bloom Time
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Spring
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LeavesSilvery Gray-Green
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EvergreenEvergreen
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Deer ResistantSeldom Damaged
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Wildlife Value
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Attracts Beneficial Insects
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Bees
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Butterfly & Other Insect Nectar
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Growth RateFast
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HardinessHardy
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Adverse Growth FactorsNone
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Special Features
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Erosion Control
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Fragrance
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Low Maintenance
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Showy Flowers
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Water Use
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Drought Tolerant
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Low
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Soil pH6.5-7.5 (neutral)
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Exposure
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Full Sun
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Soil TypeNot Particular
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DrainageWell Drained
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Description and Cultural Plant Tips
The Silver Bush Lupine has showy 3 " long purplish-blue flower spikes and blooms from spring into summer. It is a dense, compact, mounding shrub with luminous silvery gray foliage. It is also the host for the endangered Mission Blue Butterfly. Use in a butterfly or rock garden, in the back of a perennial garden or on a naturalized slope.
Plant slightly above soil grade in full sun with good drainage. Do not add fertilizers or amendments. Plant in late fall to take advantage of winter rains. It likes a lean soil. Will tolerate some summer water but it is best kept on the dry side.
This is a butterlfy magnet. Bees and beneficials also enjoy this plant. As noted above it is a host plant for the endangered Mission Blue butterfly.
No significant diseases, however, it is tasty to the snail and slug community.
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Master Gardener CommentsN / A
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VarietalsN / A