Lupine refers to a group of flowering plants in the genus Lupinus, which belongs to the legume family. These plants are known for their tall spikes of colorful flowers, which can be blue, purple, pink, or white. Lupines are commonly found in North America, Europe, and parts of South America, thriving in a variety of habitats, including meadows and open woodlands. Lupines are also important for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility. Some species are cultivated as ornamental plants in gardens, while others are used for erosion control. However, certain types of lupines can be toxic to livestock if ingested.