Plant Highlights

Lupinus excubitus is known as the grape soda lupine. Its common name refers to its sweet scent, which is said to be very reminiscent of grape soda. This species is found in the Southwestern United States, especially in California, where it can be found at Death Valley and Joshua Tree National Parks.

The Lupinus excubitus plant is a small evergreen shrub 2-3' H x 3-5' W with gray-green foliage. The fan-shaped leaves are fuzzy. The inflorescence is a tall stalk of rich purple flowers, each with a bright yellow spot. Recommended for small dry gardens in well-draining, sandy to rocky soils. Drought tolerant to occasional watering only. Hardy to 15 degrees F.

Lupine are of value to pollinators, including native bees and bumble bees. Very useful in California ecosystems to add nitrogen to the soil so that other plants in the community can benefit.