Whitewhorl Lupine
Lupinus densiflorus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Whitewhorl Lupine (Lupinus densiflorus) 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
8"–24" H × 8"–24" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Whitewhorl lupine is a showy annual native with dense clusters of white to pink flowers atop 8-24 inch stems. It features palmate leaves and blooms profusely from spring into early summer. This lupine prefers full sun and requires little water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Whitewhorl Lupine is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone, backyard only.
- Annual life cycle means it disappears entirely after seed set
- May self-seed and appear somewhat random in distribution
- Foliage can look untidy after blooming
Wildlife value
Host plant for blue butterfly.
Whitewhorl lupine is excellent for supporting native bees and butterflies, providing both nectar and pollen during its bloom period. It's particularly valuable for native specialist bee species that rely on lupines.
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 Whitewhorl Lupine fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.