Lupaceae

Lupaceae is a historically used plant family name that was applied to the group of plants commonly known as lupines, with Lupinus as the main genus. In some 19th- and 20th-century classifications, Lupaceae was treated as a distinct family within the order Fabales. In modern botanical systems, Lupinus is placed in the family Fabaceae (Leguminosae), within the subfamily Faboideae, and Lupaceae is no longer recognized as a separate lineage.

Historically, Lupaceae referred to the group of herbaceous plants known as lupines. Lupines are mostly perennials and annuals with palmately divided leaves and tall inflorescences of pea-like blossoms. The fruit is a legume containing several seeds. Lupinus species are native primarily to the Americas, especially western North America, though some species occur elsewhere, and they have been widely cultivated as ornamentals and forage.

In ecology, lupines are notable for their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen via root nodules formed with rhizobia, contributing to soil fertility. They vary in drought tolerance and soil preference, with some species adapted to alpine or semi-arid habitats.

Uses: Many lupines are grown ornamentally; seeds can be used for human food after processing, but many species produce alkaloids that can be toxic, so cultivars with low alkaloids are preferred for feed and consumption. Some wild lupines are poisonous to livestock if not properly processed.

Taxonomic status: APG IV and other modern systems do not recognize Lupaceae as a separate family; Lupinus and related genera are classified within Fabaceae, the legume family. The term Lupaceae persists in historical contexts and in some regional classifications.