Lupinus mutabilis

Peruvian Field Lupines

Lupinus mutabilis

Lupinus mutabilis, commonly known as tarwi or Andean lupin, is a species of flowering plant in the legume family, Fabaceae. It is native to the Andes mountains of South America, particularly in Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador. This plant is notable for its high protein content and its use as a food crop.

Description

Lupinus mutabilis is an annual plant that can grow up to 2 meters in height. It has a robust stem and large, palmate leaves with 5 to 9 leaflets. The flowers are typically blue, white, or purple and are arranged in dense, terminal racemes. The plant produces pods containing several seeds, which are the primary edible part.

Cultivation

Lupinus mutabilis is cultivated primarily in the high-altitude regions of the Andes, where it thrives in cool climates and well-drained soils. The plant is known for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, which makes it beneficial for crop rotation and soil fertility.

Nutritional Value

The seeds of Lupinus mutabilis are rich in protein, containing up to 45% protein by weight. They also contain significant amounts of dietary fiber, essential amino acids, and antioxidants. However, the seeds contain bitter alkaloids that must be removed through soaking and cooking before consumption.

Uses

The seeds of Lupinus mutabilis are used in various traditional dishes in the Andean region. They can be eaten boiled, roasted, or ground into flour. The plant is also used in agroforestry systems and as a green manure crop due to its nitrogen-fixing properties.

Research and Development

There is ongoing research into the potential of Lupinus mutabilis as a sustainable food source. Efforts are being made to develop low-alkaloid varieties that require less processing and to promote its cultivation in other parts of the world.

See Also

• Lupinus
• Legume
• Nitrogen fixation
• Andean agriculture