Narrow-leafed lupin, Blue lupin, Australian sweet lupin
Lupinus angustifolius
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
This lupin is primarily used as a green manure and cover crop in permaculture systems, fixing nitrogen in the soil. It is also grown for its edible seeds, which are a source of protein. Some cultivars are bred for low alkaloid content, making them safer for consumption. The plant's deep roots help improve soil structure and water infiltration. It can also be used as animal fodder. 'Boruta' is a popular variety for human consumption due to its low alkaloid content.
Permapeople description
Blue Lupin, or Lupinus angustifolius, is a plant that is native to the Mediterranean region, cultivated since over 600 years. It is a member of the legume family and has blue, purple, or white flowers that are arranged in dense spikes. The leaves of the plant are narrow and arranged in a spiral pattern on the stem.
In terms of size, Blue Lupin can grow to be between 30-100 cm tall, depending on growing conditions. It is a fast-growing plant and can be differentiated from similar plants by its narrow leaves and blue, purple, or white flowers.
Blue Lupin prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils and full sun. To cultivate it successfully, a grower will need to plant the seeds in early spring and provide the plants with adequate water and sunlight. The plant is winter hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Blue Lupin is edible and the seeds can be eaten either raw or cooked. They can also be ground into a flour and used in baking. The seeds can be stored after harvest by drying them and then storing them in an airtight container.
Blue Lupin has a number of uses. It is often used as a cover crop to improve soil health and fertility, as the plants are able to fix nitrogen in the soil. The plant is also used as a source of food for livestock, and the leaves and stems can be used as mulch. In addition, the plant is valuable for wildlife as it provides food for a variety of animals, including birds and insects.
In conclusion, Blue Lupin is a fast-growing plant that is native to the Mediterranean region. It has blue, purple, or white flowers and prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils. The plant is edible and has a number of uses, including improving soil fertility and providing food for wildlife.
Botanical description
Lupinus angustifolius is an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It typically grows to a height of 0.5 to 1.5 meters. The stems are erect and branched. The leaves are palmately compound with 5 to 9 narrow leaflets. The flowers are blue, purple, pink, or white, arranged in terminal racemes. The pods are oblong and contain several seeds. Seeds can be mottled or plain in color. It is adapted to sandy, acidic soils and is native to the Mediterranean region.
Companion planting
Generally a beneficial companion plant due to its nitrogen-fixing properties. It can improve soil fertility for subsequent crops. Avoid planting near plants that are sensitive to nitrogen fluctuations. Good companions include cereals, grasses, and brassicas. However, should be monitored to prevent overgrowth and competition with newly established plants.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily by seed. Seeds should be scarified or soaked in water before sowing to improve germination rates. Direct sowing is the most common method. The plant can also self-seed under favorable conditions. No cuttings are typically taken.
History and traditions
Narrow-leafed lupin has been cultivated for centuries in the Mediterranean region. Historically, it was primarily used as animal feed and green manure. The seeds were also consumed by humans, but due to their high alkaloid content, they required special processing to remove the bitter taste and toxins. In recent times, low-alkaloid cultivars have been developed, making the seeds safer and more palatable for human consumption. Traditional uses also include soil amendment and crop rotation.
Usage calendar
Sowing: Spring or Autumn. Flowering: Spring to Summer. Harvesting (seeds): Summer to Autumn. Green manure incorporation: Before flowering. Pruning is not typically necessary, but removing seed pods can prevent unwanted self-seeding.