Lupinus perennis ( Indian beet , Old maid's bonnets , Blue Lupine, and Sundial lupine ) is a medicinal plant in the Fabaceae family. It is widespread in the eastern part of the USA (from Florida to Canada), Canada (south of Ontario), and on the coasts of the Arctic Ocean, where it grows on sand hills.
Perennial wildflower, palm shaped leaves, blooms 2nd and 3rd year and successive seasons from expanding clumps. Blooms early to mid season. Seeds should produce mostly blue flowers, but may show some breaks to colors of reds, yellows and bicolors. Legume species.
An easily grown plant, succeeding in any moderately good soil in a sunny position. Grows well in a poor sandy soil. Requires an acid to neutral soil. Plants are hardy to about -25°c. This species is very susceptible to slug damage.
This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby.