Lupinus brevicaulis

(Shortstem Lupine)

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Lupinus brevicaulis, Hwy 131 near Toponas, Routt Co. 0006

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Lupinus brevicaulis, Hwy 131 near Toponas, Routt Co. 0001

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Lupinus brevicaulis, Hwy 131 near Toponas, Routt Co. 9999

Scientific Name Lupinus brevicaulis USDA PLANTS Symbol LUAR3
Common Name Shortstem Lupine ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. 503576
Family Fabaceae (Pea) SEINet
Reference
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Description Life zones and habitat: Semi-desert to foothills (4700 to 7000 ft); dry, rocky soils in open areas .
Plant: Low, stemless or short-stemmed annual 1 to 3 inches tall, tufted with many petioles radiating from base; foliage covered with long straight hairs.
Leaves: Palmately-divided leaves on petioles 3/8 to 2-3/4 inches long, with 5 to 7 leaflets, each narrowly oblanceolate, 3/8 to 3/4-inch long.
Inflorescence: Dense, nearly spherical clusters less than 1 inch long of 3 to 15 pea-like light to dark blue blossoms on a very short peduncle less than 2 inches long.
Bloom Period: April to June.
References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, SW Colorado Wildflowers and SEINet.
BONAP Distribution Map

Map Color Key
Colorado Status:
Native

© Tom Lebsack 2024

Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains