Lupine: Lupinus sp

Other names: Bluebonnets, Lupin

There are several species of lupines in the area, including Nootka lupine (Lupinus nootkatensis), and Arctic lupine (L. arcticus). Both have the typical bluebonnet stalk with showy blue to purple flowers. There are relatively few good medicinal or consumptive uses of this plant. Be careful too when reading other reports of this flower because while some species are edible, similar ones may cause poisoning. Thus, as hybridizations can occur readily, the plant you are eating may not be that safe. Mostly this plant is used for the showy beauty of the flowers. The Navajo claim that giving a horse small amounts of seed pods makes them “spirited”.

Medicinal Uses: Bruised seeds of the plant can be used to sooth scabby skin.

Food Use: I would advise not eating this plant as the literature seems to be contradictory. While some species may be edible, others are not. Even if it is possible to identify the proper species, there could by hybridization with other plants.