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Big-leaf lupine is a bright shot of eye-candy for hikers and gardeners this time of the year, thanks to dense clusters of blue to purple flowers blooming on spikes that can be as long as 16 inches.
Also known as large-leaved lupine, its one of 150-200 species of lupine, with at least seven of them found in Whatcom County, according to a Washington Native Plant Society list. They grow big at sea level and smaller in the mountains, where they, nevertheless, carpet meadows with stunning displays of color.
The big-leaf is a favorite of gardeners, who love its hardiness and good looks. This native is found from British Columbia down to California, and in other colors, such as pink, orange, red, yellow and white.