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Description
Lupinus Odoratus, commonly known as the fragrant lupine, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is an annual herbaceous species with a delicate, yet distinctive fragrance that is reminiscent of vanilla. Its blooming season is from late spring to early summer, and its flowers come in various shades of pink, white, blue, and purple. The fragrant lupine is native to North America and can grow up to 1-2 feet tall, making it a popular choice for garden borders, rock gardens, and container gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
The fragrant lupine has palmate leaves with 5-7 leaflets that are green in color. Its flowers are arranged in a vertical spike and can grow up to 1 inch in length. The fragrant lupine comes in a variety of colors including pink, white, blue, and purple. The flower petals are fused into a shape that is similar to a pea flower, and each petal has a dark spot in the center. The plant can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, making it a great choice for gardens, borders, and containers.
Care Guide
The fragrant lupine prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic. The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. It is recommended to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. The fragrant lupine prefers full sun exposure and is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The fragrant lupine is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil, while powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
The fragrant lupine is native to North America and can be found growing in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can the fragrant lupine grow in containers?
A: Yes, the fragrant lupine can grow well in containers.
Q: How often should I water my fragrant lupine?
A: The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
Q: What is the blooming season for the fragrant lupine?
A: The blooming season for the fragrant lupine is from late spring to early summer.
Q: What is the fragrance of the fragrant lupine reminiscent of?
A: The fragrance of the fragrant lupine is reminiscent of vanilla.
Related Plants
- Lupinus Polyphyllus
- Lupinus Arboreus
- Lupinus Texensis
References
- Burke, D. (2001). Fragrant gardens: How to select and make the most of scented flowers and leaves. Timber Press.
- Hickman, J. C. (Ed.). (1993). The Jepson manual: Higher plants of California. University of California Press.
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Lupinus odoratus. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LUOD
