Bicolor Lupine (Lupinus bicolor), also known as Miniature Lupine, is an annual lupine native to meadows, open woodlands, and coastal scrub along the coast from California to British Columbia. It is known for its compact size, reaching a height of only about 1 to 2 feet, and is so named for the contrasting flower colors of white and blue to purple.
 
Bicolor Lupine typically blooms from late spring to early summer, when the low flower spikes showcase the colorful pea-like flowers. Small bumblebees are especially adept at prying open the little flowers to reach the nectar stores within. Other wildlife, such as songbirds and small mammals, may also benefit from the seeds produced by this and other lupine species.
 
Its compact size and attractive flowers make it well-suited for border plantings, rock gardens, and even container gardening, though its true value lies in the plant’s ability to establish and disperse itself in dry coastal restoration projects. Bicolor Lupine's annual taproot and ability to fix nitrogen and colonize beneficial bacteria in the soil further contributes to its ecological value in restoring degraded soils.
 
To promote successful germination, scarify the seeds by gently scratching with light grit sandpaper or sow in fall or late winter (up to 1/4”) in sandy, well-drained soils for cold stratification. Early spring sowing is also possible, though germination may be delayed or staggered.