White Silky Lupine (Lupinus sericeus)

Generally silkey lupine is blue or purple, but occasionally white flowers such as these from Glacier National Park can be found. The species is common and widespread in dry prairie and forest habitats throughout most of western North America. All parts of lupines are toxic, especially spring foliage, flowers, and fruits. Lupine consumption by pregnant females can cause birth defects. Cows and goats that eat lupines can pass toxins through their milk and cause deformities. Death from lupine poisoning is rare among humans but livestock that eat lupine in great quantities may die. July 1997