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Description
Lupinus Lemmonii, commonly known as Lemmon’s Lupine, is a species of flowering plant in the pea family (Fabaceae). It is a perennial herb that grows up to 1.5 meters tall and is native to western North America, specifically California and Oregon. It has a striking appearance with large, showy, blue-violet flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, and its leaves are palmately compound.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
The Lupinus Lemmonii has showy, blue-violet flowers that grow in a dense, cylindrical cluster on a tall, upright stem. Each flower is roughly 1.5 cm long and has a white patch at the base. The leaves are palmately compound, with 5 to 9 leaflets that are oblong to lanceolate in shape. The plant grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a bushy growth habit.
Care Guide
Water: Water regularly, especially during the hot summer months, but don’t overwater as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize every 4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Lupinus Lemmonii thrives in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
Sunlight: This plant requires full sun to thrive, so make sure it is planted in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Lupinus Lemmonii can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lupinus Lemmonii is susceptible to aphids and spider mites, which can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Powdery mildew and rust are also common diseases that can affect this plant.
Habitat
Lupinus Lemmonii is native to the western region of North America, specifically California and Oregon. It is commonly found in open, sunny areas such as meadows, grasslands, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lupinus Lemmonii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.
Q: Does Lupinus Lemmonii attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, it is a great plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Lupinus Lemmonii be pruned?
A: It doesn’t require regular pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms.
Q: Is Lupinus Lemmonii deer-resistant?
A: No, it is not deer-resistant and can be damaged by deer if planted in areas with high deer populations.
Related Plants
- Lupinus albifrons
- Lupinus chamissonis
- Lupinus latifolius
- Lupinus nanus
- Lupinus polyphyllus
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/lupinus_lemmonii.shtml
- https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=5076
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/lupinus-lemmonii-lemmons-lupine
