Contents
Description
Lupinus Luteus, also known as Yellow Lupin or European Yellow Lupin, is a flowering plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is an annual herb that can grow up to 1 meter in height. The plant produces erect stems with alternate, palmate leaves that are divided into 5 to 8 leaflets. Lupinus Luteus is a legume crop that is widely cultivated for its seeds, which are rich in protein and oil. The plant is native to southern Europe, but it is now found in many parts of the world.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
Lupinus Luteus produces showy, bright yellow flowers that bloom in early summer. The flowers are arranged in a long, dense, terminal raceme. The plant’s fruit is a legume pod that is 3-6 cm long and contains 2-6 seeds. The seeds are large, wrinkled, and yellowish-brown in color. The plant’s leaves are palmate and have a gray-green color. The stems are sturdy and covered with fine hair.
Care Guide
To care for Lupinus Luteus, follow these guidelines:
Water
The plant needs regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often if the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Lupinus Luteus benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight
Lupinus Luteus thrives in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lupinus Luteus is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and thrips. The plant can also suffer from root rot, powdery mildew, and rust.
Habitat
Lupinus Luteus is native to southern Europe, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, forests, and rocky hillsides. The plant is now cultivated in many parts of the world, including North America, Australia, and South Africa.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to plant Lupinus Luteus?
A: The best time to plant Lupinus Luteus is in the spring after the last frost has passed.
Q: How long does it take for Lupinus Luteus to bloom?
A: Lupinus Luteus blooms in early summer, about 2-3 months after planting.
Q: Can Lupinus Luteus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lupinus Luteus can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Is Lupinus Luteus poisonous?
A: The seeds of Lupinus Luteus contain alkaloids that are toxic to humans and animals if ingested in large quantities.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Lupinus genus include:
- Lupinus arboreus
- Lupinus polyphyllus
- Lupinus nanus
- Lupinus albus
References
- “Lupinus luteus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 6, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c186.
- “Lupinus luteus L.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed September 6, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:498217-1.
- “Yellow Lupin.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 6, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12661/Lupinus-luteus/Details.
