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Description
Lupinus Arcticus, also known as Arctic Lupine, is a perennial plant that belongs to the legume family Fabaceae. It is native to Alaska, Canada, and Greenland, and is found in subarctic and alpine regions. The plant can grow up to 1.5 feet tall and has a spread of about 1 foot. The leaves are palmately compound, with 5-7 leaflets that are oblong to lanceolate in shape, and are covered with hairs. The flowers are blue to purple in color and are arranged in a spike-like inflorescence. The plant blooms from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
Arctic Lupine is a beautiful plant that adds color to any garden. The leaves are green and are palmately compound with 5-7 leaflets. The leaflets are oblong to lanceolate in shape and are covered with hairs. The flowers are blue to purple in color and are arranged in a spike-like inflorescence. The plant blooms from June to August. The seeds are in pods that are covered with hairs.
Care Guide
Arctic Lupine is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your Arctic Lupine:- Water: Arctic Lupine prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Arctic Lupine does not require a lot of fertilizer. A slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring is enough to keep the plant healthy.- Soil: Arctic Lupine prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should be rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Arctic Lupine prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Arctic Lupine is hardy in zones 1-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Arctic Lupine is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by providing it with the right conditions and fertilizing it properly.
Habitat
Arctic Lupine is native to subarctic and alpine regions in Alaska, Canada, and Greenland. It grows in meadows, tundra, and rocky slopes. The plant is adapted to harsh environmental conditions, such as cold temperatures and strong winds.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Arctic Lupine a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Arctic Lupine is a hardy plant that is easy to care for and is a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Q: Can Arctic Lupine tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, Arctic Lupine is adapted to cold temperatures and is hardy in zones 1-7.
Q: Does Arctic Lupine attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Arctic Lupine attracts bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Arctic Lupine be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Arctic Lupine can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Related Plants
– Lupinus arcticus ssp. alaskensis- Lupinus arcticus ssp. subalpinus- Lupinus nootkatensis- Lupinus latifolius
References
– USDA Plants Database: https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LUAR- The Spruce: https://www.thespruce.com/arctic-lupine-plant-profile-5073588- Alaska Native Plant Society: http://www.aknativeplantsociety.org/?page_id=888
