Lupinus mexicanus
Lupinus mexicanus
Mexican lupine
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Common Names
Mexican lupine
Context
nativeRegion
Native to Mexico and parts of Central America.
usdaZones
Zones 8–11 (treated as annual in cooler zones).
companionPlants
Gaillardia, Coreopsis, Eschscholzia (California poppy), Cosmos
culturalUses
Used ornamentally and for soil improvement (nitrogen fixation); sometimes cited in traditional medicine.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun is best, though it will tolerate partial shade.
WateringMedium watering; prefers moist but well-drained soils. Once established, is somewhat drought tolerant.
SoilPrefers sandy, gritty, or well-draining loam; avoids heavy, waterlogged soils.
FertilizerGenerally does not require fertilization due to its nitrogen-fixing ability; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
HumidityHandles typical outdoor humidity; does not require high humidity.
TemperaturePrefers mild to warm temperatures; sensitive to frost but can tolerate some cool weather.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitErect annual herb with dense racemes of bright blue to purple flowers.
Mature Size30–80 cm tall (about 12–32 inches).
Growth RateFast-growing annual.
BloomingBlooms in late spring to summer (depending on climate).
DormancyNo true dormancy in annual lifecycle; seeds set after blooms.
Propagation
Methodsseed
DifficultyEasy; seeds germinate readily after light scarification or soaking.
Best SeasonSpring (after last frost)
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove spent flower spikes to prolong blooming; otherwise minimal pruning needed.
RepottingNot applicable—best grown directly in beds or large containers as annual.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-resistant; may occasionally have aphids or fungal leaf spots.
ToxicityMildly toxic if ingested by humans or animals (alkaloid content).
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