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Description
Lupinus Microcarpus, also known as the Coulter’s Lupine, is a species of flowering plant in the legume family Fabaceae. It is native to California and can be found in the coastal ranges and foothills, as well as in open forests and meadows. This plant is an herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It blooms in the spring and summer, producing beautiful spikes of blue-purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
Lupinus Microcarpus has green, palmate leaves that are divided into 5-9 leaflets. The flowers are pea-shaped and arranged in dense spikes that can reach up to 12 inches in length. Each spike can contain up to 50 individual flowers, which are typically blue-purple in color, but can also be pink, white, or yellow. The plant’s fruit is a hairy, cylindrical pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Lupinus Microcarpus is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this beautiful plant:- Water: Water regularly during the plant’s growing season, but be careful not to overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic (pH 6.0-6.5). If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Lupinus Microcarpus prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lupinus Microcarpus is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Other potential problems include aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. If you notice any of these issues, treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or fungicide.
Habitat
Lupinus Microcarpus is native to California and can be found in a variety of habitats, including coastal ranges, foothills, meadows, and open forests. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate some drought, but it does require adequate moisture to thrive.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lupinus Microcarpus poisonous to humans?
A: Although Lupinus Microcarpus is not considered highly toxic, its seeds and foliage contain alkaloids that can cause digestive upset if ingested in large quantities. It is best to avoid eating or handling the plant.
Q: How long does Lupinus Microcarpus bloom?
A: Lupinus Microcarpus typically blooms from late spring to early summer, but the exact timing can vary depending on the climate and growing conditions.
Q: Can Lupinus Microcarpus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lupinus Microcarpus can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and the soil is well-draining. Be sure to water and fertilize the plant regularly to keep it healthy.
Q: How do I propagate Lupinus Microcarpus?
A: Lupinus Microcarpus can be propagated from seed or by division. To propagate by seed, sow the seeds in the fall or early spring in a well-draining soil mix. To propagate by division, dig up the plant and carefully separate the roots into smaller sections, being sure to include some foliage with each section. Replant the new sections in well-draining soil and water regularly until they are established.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:- Lupinus Albifrons (Silver Lupine)- Lupinus Chamissonis (Silver Beach Lupine)- Lupinus Laxiflorus (Kellogg’s Spreading Lupine)- Lupinus Nanus (Sky Lupine)
References
– “Lupinus Microcarpus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LUMI.- “Coulter’s Lupine.” Las Pilitas Nursery, www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/lupinus-microcarpus-coulters-lupine.- “Growing Lupines.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/lupine/growing-lupines.htm.
