Lupinus Angustifolius

Description

Lupinus Angustifolius, commonly known as Blue Lupin or Narrow-Leaved Lupin, is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated in various parts of the world, including Australia, Europe, and North America. This plant is an annual or biennial herb that can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. Its flowers are blue, purple, or white and bloom from late spring to early summer.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Blue Lupin has narrow leaves that are about 5-15 cm long and 0.5-1 cm wide. The flowers are arranged in a terminal raceme that can be up to 30 cm long. Each flower is about 1.5 cm long and has a characteristic pea-shaped structure. The fruit is a pod that is about 3-6 cm long and contains several seeds. The seeds are small, round, and usually have a yellowish or light brown color.

Care Guide

Water

Blue Lupin prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It needs regular watering, especially during dry periods, but overwatering should be avoided.

Fertilization

This plant requires moderate fertilization, especially during its growth phase. Nitrogen is essential for plant growth, so a balanced fertilizer with a high nitrogen content should be used.

Soil

Blue Lupin grows well in a range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The soil should be well-drained and have a pH between 5.5 and 7.5.

Sunlight

This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Hardiness Zones

Blue Lupin is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Blue Lupin is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and cutworms. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and rust.

Habitat

Blue Lupin is native to the Mediterranean region but is widely cultivated in various parts of the world. It grows well in temperate climates and is often used as a cover crop or forage crop.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Blue Lupin poisonous?

A: Blue Lupin contains toxic alkaloids and should not be consumed by humans or animals.

Q: Can Blue Lupin be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Blue Lupin can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and the soil is well-drained.

Q: When is the best time to plant Blue Lupin?

A: Blue Lupin should be planted in the fall or early spring, depending on the climate.

Q: How long does Blue Lupin take to bloom?

A: Blue Lupin typically blooms from late spring to early summer, about 6-8 weeks after planting.

Related Plants

• Lupinus Albus
• Lupinus Arboreus
• Lupinus Luteus
• Lupinus Perennis

References

• “Lupinus Angustifolius.” PlantNet. Accessed 3 Aug. 2021. <https://www.plantnet.org/en/plant-biodiversity/spe%EF%AC%81cies-fungi/version-2021-1/angiosperms/lupinus-angustifolius/>.
• “Lupinus Angustifolius.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 3 Aug. 2021. <https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AG264>.
• “Lupinus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 3 Aug. 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b711>.