Tree lupine, also known as lupinus arboreus, is a popular plant species found along the Pacific coast of North America. The pronunciation of the word "lupine" is [ˈluːpaɪn] in IPA transcription, with the stress on the first syllable. The spelling of "lupine" is derived from the Latin word "lupinus," meaning "of a wolf." Tree lupine is a valuable plant in landscaping and gardening, as it is hardy, drought-tolerant, and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Tree lupine, scientifically known as Lupinus arboreus, is a perennial shrub belonging to the family Fabaceae, native to the coastal regions of California and Oregon in the United States. It is characterized by its tall and upright growth habit, reaching heights between 3 to 10 feet (1 to 3 meters). The plant gets its common name "tree lupine" due to its tree-like appearance.
The tree lupine has a woody stem and is covered with distinctive compound leaves that consist of several leaflets. The leaflets are narrow and elongated, giving the foliage a feathery appearance. The plant produces vibrant and showy flowers, arranged in dense clusters at the top of the stems. These flowers are typically yellow but can also be found in shades of purple or white, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Tree lupine thrives in well-drained soils and is often found in coastal dunes, grasslands, and open woodlands. It is known for its ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere, enriching the soil and making it favorable for other plant species. Additionally, the tree lupine has been used in land reclamation projects and erosion control due to its extensive root system.
While it is a valuable plant for ecological purposes, tree lupine can also be considered invasive in certain regions where it has been introduced. Its rapid growth and reproduction can outcompete native vegetation and disrupt the natural balance of ecosystems. Therefore, its presence should be carefully managed to avoid negative impacts on biodiversity and native flora.
The word "tree lupine" is composed of two parts: "tree" and "lupine".
"Tree" originates from the Old English word "treow/trowe", which means a large woody plant with a trunk and branches that grows above a certain height. This word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "trewam", meaning "tree" or "wood".
"Lupine" is derived from the Latin word "lupinus", which means "of a wolf". This name was given to the plant because lupine leaves were thought to resemble a wolf's paw. The Latin word "lupinus" comes from "lupus", which means "wolf".
So, when combined, the word "tree lupine" describes a type of lupine plant that grows as a large woody shrub or small tree.