Common Name:

General Information

Lupinus pusillus is an annual plant with spreading branches growing from a taproot; it can grow 5 - 24cm tall[].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine.

Known Hazards

Lupinus species in general (and especially the seeds) contain a range of bitter-tasting alkaloids such as lupine, anagyrine, sparteine and hydroxylupanine. The pharmacological effects of these alkaloids are that they block ganglionic transmission, decrease cardiac contractility and contract uterine smooth muscle[]. When ingested in moderate to large quantities they can cause symptoms such as respiratory depression and slow heartbeat, sleepiness and convulsions[].
Alkaloid levels can vary greatly from species to species, and several members of the genus are used for food. In some species low-alkaloid, sweeter-tasting varieties have been developed. There are also techniques (particularly soaking and discarding the soak water) that lower the alkaloid levels.
Unless it is known that the plant is low in alkaloids then caution should be applied to any ingestion of the plant[].
Fungal toxins can readily invade the crushed seed and can cause chronic illness[].

Botanical References

Range

Western and central N. America - Alberta and Saskatchewan, south through Washington and N. Dakota to California, New Mexico and Oklahoma

Habitat

Dry places in sagebrush scrub and pinyon-juniper woodland, commonly in sandy soils; at elevations from 1,200 - 1,500 metres[].

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Annual
Height	0.15 m
Pollinators	Bees, Insects
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Members of this genus are mainly found in dry habitats, often on stony and low fertility soils[]. In cultivation they generally grow well if given a sunny position in a deep, well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acid pH[].
This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria; these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The plant (part not specified) is haemostatic. It is used to treat nosebleeds and as a medicine for the ears and eyes[].

Other Uses

The plant is used as an ingredient in fumigants[].

We have no specific information for this species, but the soakwater used to extract alkaloids from several edible species of lupin has been shown to be effective as a biocide[].

Propagation

Pre-soak the seed for 24 hours in warm water and sow in mid spring in situ[, ]. You may need to protect the seed from mice. Germination should take place within 2 weeks.