Arroyo Lupine (Lupinus succulentus)

Arroyo or succulent lupine (Lupinus succulentus) is an annual with dark green six-fingered leaves and spikes of purple-blue flowers that bloom in winter to spring. Sometimes flowers are shades of light purple, pink, and white. It grows fast to reach 2 to 4 feet  tall and 3 feet wide. The fruit is a hairy legume pod. Caution: seeds, leaves and stems are toxic. This plant is popular in gardens because it is the most water-tolerant of all lupines. It prefers full sun and moist clay or heavy soils. The amount of fertility and moisture generally dictates the height of the plant. The seed germinates easily in any season given enough water. Seeds can be treated before planting by pouring hot water over them in a cup and allowing them to soak. They should be planted about a quarter inch deep. The plants compete with weeds and add nitrogen to the soil. Sow in a mass for best effect. From Calscape