Description
Lupinus mutabilis var. cruckshank | Andean Lupine ‘Blue Javelin’
Andean Lupine, also called Tarwi, Chocho, Altramuz, Andean Soybean, South American lupine, Peruvian field lupine, and Pearl lupine, has been domesticated for more than 1500 years and is considered to be one of the lost crops of the Incas. Its seeds are characterized by a high protein and oil content, which exceeds that of any other lupine species. *However, please note that these the seeds contain high concentrations of alkaloids and they must be soaked for at least 48 hours, in multiple changes of water, to eliminate the bitter alkaloids.
Its vegetative growth is from from spring to autumn and then produces fragrant blue and white flowers with a yellow throat from June to August, with the seeds ripening August to September. (Deadhead spent flowers to encourage repeat-blooms.)
Lupinus mutabilis is tolerant of cool weather and grows in light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils, handling nutritionally poor soil just fine and tolerating drought. However, it prefers moist soil. Will not grow well in the shade.
Like many pea-family plants ‘Blue Javelin’ Andean Lupine has a symbiotic relationship with specific soil bacteria. These bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant itself, but some can also be used by other plants that are growing nearby. When removing the plant at the end of the growing season, it is best to only remove the aerial parts of the plant, leaving the roots in the ground to decay and release their nitrogen.
The annual species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by bees and butterflies.
Excellent for naturalizing, the seeds will self-sow and will grow true-to-type , although not all will have exactly the same hues/colors.
Its alkaloid content is a natural defense mechanism so it’s not bothered by deer or rabbits.
Makes a great cut flower for bouquets.
Type: Annual
Sun exposure: Full sun
Mature height: 2-4 ft
Mature width: 1-2 ft
Hardiness zones: 4-9
