Lupinus Argenteus

Description

Lupinus Argenteus, commonly known as Silvery Lupine, is a perennial herbaceous plant species belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is native to western North America and can be found in areas ranging from Mexico to British Columbia. The plant grows up to 1 meter in height and produces a dense, leafy stem with spikes of blue to purple flowers that bloom from May to August. The leaves are palmately compound with 5-11 leaflets, and the flowers are pea-like, with a banner petal that is often tinged with white or pink.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Fabales
Family	Fabaceae
Genus	Lupinus
Species	Lupinus Argenteus

Appearance

The Silvery Lupine has a distinct appearance with its densely packed spikes of blue to purple flowers that bloom in the summer months. The leaves are palmately compound with 5-11 leaflets and are green-gray in color. The flowers are pea-like, with a banner petal that is often tinged with white or pink. The plant grows up to 1 meter in height and has a bushy, leafy stem. The seeds are dark brown or black and are contained in pods that split open when mature.

Care Guide

When it comes to caring for the Silvery Lupine, there are a few things to keep in mind.

• Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Regular watering during the growing season is important, but be careful not to overwater.
• Fertilization: A balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage healthy growth.
• Soil: The Silvery Lupine prefers well-drained, sandy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
• Hardiness Zones: The Silvery Lupine is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Silvery Lupine is relatively disease-resistant but can be affected by a few pests and diseases.

• Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cluster on the plant and cause damage by sucking sap from the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water.
• Cutworms: These caterpillars can cut through the stem of the plant and cause it to wilt and die. They can be controlled by using a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis or by placing a collar around the base of the plant.
• Root Rot: This fungal disease can cause the roots of the plant to rot and can lead to wilting and death. It can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is not overwatered and is planted in well-drained soil.

Habitat

The Silvery Lupine is native to western North America and can be found in areas ranging from Mexico to British Columbia. It prefers dry, open areas such as meadows, sagebrush steppe, and dry forests. It is also commonly found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.

Question and Answer

Q: Is the Silvery Lupine poisonous?

A: The Silvery Lupine is not poisonous and is safe for human and animal consumption.

Q: Can the Silvery Lupine be grown in containers?

A: Yes, the Silvery Lupine can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Q: How long does it take for the Silvery Lupine to bloom?

A: The Silvery Lupine typically blooms in the summer months, with flowers appearing in late May or early June.

Q: Does the Silvery Lupine attract pollinators?

A: Yes, the Silvery Lupine is an important source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.

Related Plants

• Lupinus perennis
• Lupinus polyphyllus
• Lupinus texensis

References

• “Lupinus Argenteus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LUAR2.
• “Lupinus Argenteus.” USDA Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/lupinus_argenteus.shtml.
• “Silvery Lupine.” Montana Field Guide, Montana Natural Heritage Program and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, fieldguide.mt.gov/speciesDetail.aspx?elcode=PDFAB0F010.