Thermopsis montana * Mountain Golden Banner, Mountain Golden Pea

Thermopsis montana is a hardy perennial from the mountains of the Northwest and Rockies. The Mountain Golden Banner resembles Lupine but has only 3 leaflets while Lupines have 5 leading to the name False Lupine. The other common name in use is Mountain Golden Pea. Thermopsis montana grows from 1-3 feet tall and wide, sometimes more. Thermopsis montana likes a sunny to lightly shaded spot in the garden with moist well drained soil. Thermopsis montana blooms from late Spring into Summer producing stalks of yellow flowers at the tops of the stems. Thermopsis montana is not eaten by deer and can sicken other grazers. Thermopsis montana can be found in the high plains and open woodland areas. Cut plants back after a hard frost.