Lupinus polyphyllus
Lupinus polyphyllus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lupinus polyphyllus is a striking perennial known for its towering spikes of vibrant blue or purple flowers. This species contains several significant chemical compounds, including anagyrine, ammodendrine, and lupanine. While often admired for its aesthetic appeal in gardens, the plant's complex internal composition is a subject of scientific interest. Researchers examine its biological properties, sometimes noting how specific factors like viscosity influence its chemical behavior. Understanding these intricate details provides a deeper look into the botanical complexity of this popular lupine.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Pacific
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Lupinus polyphyllus is a versatile plant known by a wide variety of descriptive names across different regions. It is frequently referred to as the Big-leaved lupine or Bigleaf Lupine, highlighting its most prominent physical characteristic. Gardeners often search for it using its other common title, Althramuz perenne, when looking to add color to their landscapes. Depending on the local dialect, you might also encounter it called the Blue-Pod Lupine due to its striking seed pods. In certain cultural contexts, it even carries the unique Welsh name Bysedd-y-Blaidd y Gerddi.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Lupinus polyphyllus is a remarkable organism belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Fabales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. The plant is a prominent member of the family Fabaceae, which connects it to a diverse group of legumes. Ultimately, it is defined by its specific genus, Lupinus, marking its unique place in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lupinus polyphyllus exhibits a broad distribution across the Asia-Temperate region, spanning diverse and rugged landscapes. Its presence is firmly established in the Caucasus and Transcaucasus, marking its reach through these mountainous territories. Moving eastward, the species thrives within the vast reaches of Central Asia, specifically throughout Kazakhstan and Kirgizstan. The plant also inhabits the expansive terrains of Mongolia, demonstrating significant adaptability to the local climate. Finally, its range extends to the Russian Far East, where it can be found growing in the unique environment of Kamchatka.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lupinus polyphyllus is a self-supporting herb that stands prominently in its natural habitat. This plant displays a versatile growth form, typically reaching a minimum height of 0.5 meters. While it can maintain a more modest stature of around 1.092 meters, it often reaches much greater dimensions. Ultimately, the species can achieve a maximum height of up to 1.5 meters. These varying dimensions allow the plant to adapt effectively to its environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Lupinus polyphyllus is a species frequently studied for its chemical composition, particularly regarding its alkaloid levels. Researchers have specifically investigated whether this plant contains the alkaloid known as anagyrine. Through the use of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, various lupin species were analyzed to detect this specific compound. However, the study found that no anagyrine was actually detected in any of the tested samples. Instead, the chemical peaks previously thought to be anagyrine appeared to be identical to 17-oxolupanine.
Conditions
Lupinus polyphyllus impacts several physiological and digestive factors in broiler diets. Research indicates that these sweet lupins significantly increase digesta viscosity and overall viscosity. The inclusion of the plant is also associated with higher excreta stickiness scores. Furthermore, the use of sweet lupins is linked to the presence of wet droppings in poultry. Finally, the plant's influence extends to the Food conversion ratio (FCR), as it was noted for having different effects on feed efficiency compared to other legumes.