Chick Lupine
Lupinus microcarpus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Chick Lupine (Lupinus microcarpus) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, NV, OR and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Lupinus microcarpus, commonly known as chick lupine, is a colorful annual wildflower native to parts of western North America. It produces attractive spikes of blue-purple flowers in spring and early summer above a compact mound of palmate foliage. Plants reseed readily in favorable conditions but are not aggressive spreaders.
In an HOA neighborhood
Chick Lupine is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only, foundation.
- Can look untidy after blooming
- May self-seed and appear somewhat random/informal
- Annual nature means seasonal gaps without proper planning
Wildlife value
Host plant for orange sulphur butterfly.
This lupine is an excellent pollinator plant, particularly attractive to native bees and butterflies. It serves as a nectar source for adult butterflies and a host plant for certain butterfly larvae.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Chick Lupine fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.