Lupinus albus

Lupinus albus, also known as the white lupin, is a member of the legume family. It is a perennial plant that is native to the Mediterranean region but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia.

Description

The Lupinus albus plant typically grows to a height of 1-2 meters. It has a deep taproot system, which allows it to thrive in poor soil conditions. The leaves are palmately compound, with 5-9 leaflets. The flowers are white, hence the common name "white lupin", and are arranged in a terminal raceme.

Cultivation

Lupinus albus is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soil. It is often used as a cover crop to improve soil fertility, as it has the ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. The seeds are sown in the spring and the plants flower in the summer.

Uses

The seeds of Lupinus albus are edible and are often used in Mediterranean cuisine. They are high in protein and dietary fiber, and are also a good source of vitamins and minerals. However, they contain alkaloids and should be soaked and cooked before consumption to remove these potentially harmful substances.

In addition to their culinary uses, the seeds are also used in traditional medicine. They are believed to have diuretic and antispasmodic properties, and have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive disorders and skin conditions.

See also

• Lupinus
• Legume
• Cover crop