Lupinus arboreus - Tree Lupin - (Fabaceae)

This shrub was introduced from California to Britain in the 1700s, and has since become popular as a municipal planting on roadside verges and banks. Once established it easily self-seeds in dry and frost-free locations, and is particularly common on southern and western coasts around the UK.

The tree lupin, more accurately but less frequently referred to as the bush lupin, is particularly common on the light, sandy soils of the coastal strip.

Tree Lupin

The flowers are usually yellow, but occasionally they are white with a mauve tinge. Tree lupins bloom from May to August and are generally at their best from mid June to the end of July.

Closeup picture of Tree Lupin

The flowers are sometimes creamy-white with pink or mauve tinges, but are usually yellow.

The plants on this page were photographed on the West Wales coast in July.