Lupinus Diffusus

Description

Lupinus Diffusus, commonly known as the Spreading Lupine or the Oak Lupine, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This species is native to California and can be found in the coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats. It is a beautiful ornamental plant with attractive flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. It grows up to 3 feet tall and spreads up to 2 feet wide. The Spreading Lupine is a hardy plant that can survive in various conditions, making it a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Spreading Lupine has green, palmate leaves that are divided into 5-9 leaflets. The leaves are hairy and can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are arranged in a spike and can be blue, purple, pink, or white. The flowers have a distinct sweet fragrance and are attractive to bees and butterflies. The plant produces a pod that contains the seeds. The seeds are large and can be used for propagation.

Care Guide

The Spreading Lupine is an easy-to-care plant that requires minimal attention. Here are some tips for taking care of your Spreading Lupine:

• Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. You can use a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
• Soil: The Spreading Lupine prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The plant can tolerate poor soil, but it will not thrive in it.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Make sure the plant gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: The Spreading Lupine can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Spreading Lupine is susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and die. You can control aphids by using insecticidal soap.
• Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and webbing on the plant. You can control spider mites by using neem oil.
• Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the plant. You can control mildew by improving air circulation and using fungicides.
• Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can cause the plant to wilt and die. You can prevent root rot by ensuring that the soil is well-draining.

Habitat

The Spreading Lupine is native to California and can be found in the coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats. It grows in dry, sandy, and rocky soils and can tolerate drought and wildfire. The plant plays an important role in the ecosystem by providing food and habitat for various wildlife species such as bees, butterflies, and birds.

Question and Answer

Q: Can the Spreading Lupine be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Spreading Lupine?
A: You can fertilize the plant once a year in the spring using a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Does the Spreading Lupine require pruning?
A: No, the plant does not require pruning. However, you can deadhead the spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

Q: Can the Spreading Lupine survive in a hot and humid climate?
A: No, the plant prefers a dry and cool climate and may not survive in a hot and humid climate.

Related Plants

• Lupinus Albifrons
• Lupinus Laxiflorus
• Lupinus Perennis
• Lupinus Texensis

References

• “Lupinus Diffusus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LUDI4. Accessed 15 Aug. 2021.
• “Lupinus Diffusus.” Calflora, https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=4840. Accessed 15 Aug. 2021.
• “Lupinus Diffusus.” California Native Plant Society, https://www.cnps.org/gardening/profiles/lupinus-diffusus. Accessed 15 Aug. 2021.