Description Lupinus mutabilis var. cruckshank | Andean Lupine ‘Choquequirao Trail’ (BK14513.18) Andean Lupine, also called Tarwi, Chocho, Altramuz, Andean Soybean, South American lupine, Peruvian field lupine, and Pearl lupine, has been domesticated for more than 1500 years and is considered to be one of the lost crops of the Incas. Its seeds are characterized by a high protein and oil content, which exceeds that of any other lupine species. The ‘Choquequirao Trail’ Lupine is extremely rare in cultivation. During its vegetative growth it has attractive deep green palmate leaves with 4-8 inch long spires of dark purple-blue flowers with bright yellow and white splotches. Open rocky slopes amongst cloudforest, Sunchupata near Choquequirao, Cusco, Peru, 9700′. Tolerant of cool weather and grows in light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils, handling nutritionally poor soil just fine and tolerating drought, too. However, it prefers moist soil. Will not grow well in the shade. Like many pea-family plants ‘Choquequirao Trail’ Andean Lupine has a symbiotic relationship with specific soil bacteria. These bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant itself, but some can also be used by other plants that are growing nearby. When removing the plant at the end of the growing season, it is best to only remove the aerial parts of the plant, leaving the roots in the ground to decay and release their nitrogen. Pollinated by bees and butterflies. Excellent for naturalizing, the seeds will self-sow and will grow true-to-type. Its alkaloid content is a natural defense mechanism so it’s not bothered by deer or rabbits. Makes a great cut flower for bouquets. Type: Annual Sun exposure: Full sun Mature height: 14-24 inches Mature width: 18 inches Hardiness zones: 4-9
