Yellow Lupin, European Yellow Lupin, Field Lupin, Tremoço Amarelo
Lupinus luteus
🌿 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
Yellow lupin is primarily used as a nitrogen-fixing cover crop and green manure. It improves soil fertility and structure. The seeds are edible after careful processing to remove alkaloids. It can also be used as livestock feed. Some cultivars have been bred for lower alkaloid content, improving edibility. It attracts pollinators and beneficial insects.
Permapeople description
A species of flowering plant in the legume family Fabaceae.
Botanical description
Lupinus luteus is an annual herbaceous plant in the Fabaceae family. It grows to a height of 0.3 to 0.8 meters. The leaves are palmate with 5-9 leaflets. The flowers are bright yellow and are borne in terminal racemes. The pods are hairy and contain several seeds. The seeds are round and flattened, typically yellow but can vary. It prefers well-drained, acidic soils and full sun.
Companion planting
Yellow lupin is a beneficial companion plant for crops that benefit from nitrogen-rich soils. It can be intercropped with cereals or vegetables. Avoid planting near members of the Allium family (onions, garlic), as they can inhibit lupin growth. Good with Brassicas (cabbage family), improving nitrogen availability.
Propagation methods
Yellow lupin is propagated by seed. Seeds can be directly sown in the spring after the last frost, or in the autumn for a spring harvest. Scarification of the seed coat can improve germination rates. No pre-treatment is generally necessary.
History and traditions
Yellow lupin has been cultivated in Europe for centuries, primarily for its use as a green manure and livestock feed. Historically, the seeds were consumed after undergoing a laborious process of soaking and cooking to remove the bitter and toxic alkaloids. It was used in some traditional medicines, although its use was limited by its toxicity.
Usage calendar
Sowing: March-May, September-October. Flowering: June-August. Harvesting (seeds/green manure): August-September. Incorporation as green manure: Before flowering.