Gray's Lupine
Lupinus grayi
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, NV, OR
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Lupinus grayi is a compact native lupine that forms neat clumps of silvery-green palmate leaves. It produces tall spikes of purple-blue pea flowers from May through July, creating an attractive mid-border display.
In an HOA neighborhood
Gray's Lupine is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Seed pods may look untidy if not deadheaded
Wildlife value
Host plant for silver blue butterfly.
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies during the long blooming season. As a member of the pea family, it also fixes nitrogen in the soil.
Common questions
- How much sun does Gray's Lupine need?
- Gray's Lupine grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Gray's Lupine bloom?
- Gray's Lupine blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Gray's Lupine native?
- Gray's Lupine (Lupinus grayi) is native to CA, NV, OR, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Gray's Lupine host?
- Gray's Lupine is a larval host plant for silver blue butterfly.
- Is Gray's Lupine HOA-friendly?
- Gray's Lupine is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Gray's Lupine? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz