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Description
Lupinus Albicaulis, commonly known as the Whitebark Lupine, is a species of flowering plant in the legume family, Fabaceae. This plant is native to western North America, ranging from Alaska to California, and is commonly found in subalpine and alpine environments. It is a perennial herb that can grow up to 40 cm tall and has a deep taproot.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
The Whitebark Lupine has a distinctive appearance, with erect stems and palmately compound leaves with 5-9 leaflets. The leaves are green-gray in color and are covered with silvery hairs. The plant produces showy white to pinkish-purple flowers in a tall, dense spike, which can reach up to 60 cm in length. The flowers bloom from May to July and are followed by seed pods.
Care Guide
Whitebark Lupines require a well-draining soil and full sun exposure. They prefer a moist soil, but do not tolerate standing water. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Whitebark Lupine is generally not prone to pests or diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by aphids or spider mites. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
The Whitebark Lupine is commonly found in subalpine and alpine environments, growing in rocky or gravelly soils. It can also be found in meadows, open woodlands, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Whitebark Lupine in a container?
A: While it is possible to grow Whitebark Lupine in a container, it prefers a deep taproot and may not thrive in a confined space.
Q: How often should I water my Whitebark Lupine?
A: Whitebark Lupines prefer a moist soil, but do not tolerate standing water. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: When is the best time to plant Whitebark Lupine?
A: Whitebark Lupines should be planted in the spring or fall, when the soil is cool and moist.
Q: How do I propagate Whitebark Lupine?
A: Whitebark Lupines can be propagated by seed or by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Lupinus argenteus
- Lupinus latifolius
- Lupinus lepidus
- Lupinus sericeus
References
- USDA Plants Database: https://plants.usda.gov/home
- Wildflowers of the Pacific Northwest: https://www.pnwflowers.com/flower/lupinus-albicaulis
- Washington Native Plant Society: https://www.wnps.org/native-plant-directory/160-lupinus-albicaulis
