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Description
Lupinus Sericeus, commonly known as Silky Lupine or Silky-leaf Lupine, is a perennial wildflower species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to western North America, including parts of California, Oregon, Nevada, and Utah. The plant typically grows up to 1-3 feet tall and spreads up to 2-3 feet wide. It is a drought-tolerant plant that blooms in late spring to early summer, producing showy spikes of blue-purple flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
| Species | Lupinus Sericeus |
Appearance
The leaves of Lupinus Sericeus are silvery-green and covered with fine silky hairs, hence the name Silky Lupine. The flowers are usually blue-purple, but can also be pink, lavender, or white, and grow in dense spikes that can reach up to 8 inches long. The plant has a deep taproot that helps it survive in dry conditions. Lupinus Sericeus is a showy and attractive wildflower that adds color and texture to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Water: Lupinus Sericeus is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers well-drained soil. It does not require frequent watering, but it is important to keep the soil moist during its growing season.
Fertilization: Lupinus Sericeus does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring is sufficient to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Soil: Lupinus Sericeus prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate poor soils, but does not do well in heavy clay soils.
Sunlight: Lupinus Sericeus prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. It does require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to bloom properly.
Hardiness Zones: Lupinus Sericeus can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lupinus Sericeus is generally disease-resistant and pest-free. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot if the growing conditions are unfavorable. To prevent these diseases, it is important to provide proper growing conditions, such as well-drained soil and adequate air circulation.
Habitat
Lupinus Sericeus is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, sagebrush steppe, and open forests. It is an important food source for many wildlife species, such as deer, elk, and rabbits, and is also used as a host plant by the endangered Karner blue butterfly.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lupinus Sericeus toxic to humans or pets?
A: Lupinus Sericeus can be toxic if ingested in large quantities, especially the seeds. It is important to keep the plant away from children and pets.
Q: Can Lupinus Sericeus grow in containers?
A: Lupinus Sericeus can grow in containers, but it requires a deep container with well-drained soil and regular watering. It is best suited for growing in the ground.
Q: How often should I prune Lupinus Sericeus?
A: Lupinus Sericeus does not require frequent pruning. However, removing spent blooms can encourage more blooming and prevent the plant from self-seeding.
Q: Can I propagate Lupinus Sericeus from cuttings?
A: Lupinus Sericeus is best propagated from seeds, but it can also be propagated from stem cuttings in late summer or early fall. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and rooted in well-drained soil.
Related Plants
- Lupinus Arboreus
- Lupinus Nana
- Lupinus Perennis
- Lupinus Texensis
References
- USDA Plants Database: Lupinus Sericeus
- Wildflower.org: Lupinus Sericeus
- Gardening Know How: Silky Lupine
- California Native Plant Society: Lupinus Sericeus
