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Description
Lupinus Oreganus, commonly known as the Oregon lupine or streambank lupine, is a species of flowering plant native to the western United States. This perennial plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a spread of up to 2 feet. It is characterized by its showy, blue-violet flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
The Oregon lupine has a tall, erect stem with palmately compound leaves that are green and hairy. Its showy, blue-violet flowers grow in dense, terminal spikes and have a sweet fragrance. Each flower is about 1 inch long and has a banner, wings, and keel. The banner is the uppermost petal, while the wings and keel are the two side petals. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer, and the flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Water: The Oregon lupine prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. It needs consistent moisture during its growing season but should not be overwatered.Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring can be beneficial.Soil: The Oregon lupine prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. It grows well in sandy or loamy soil with good drainage.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not tolerate deep shade.Hardiness Zones: The Oregon lupine can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Oregon lupine is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Aphids, mites, and whiteflies can also infest the plant, but they are not usually a major problem.
Habitat
The Oregon lupine is native to the western United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, grasslands, and streambanks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can the Oregon lupine be grown in containers?A: Yes, the Oregon lupine can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How often should I water the Oregon lupine?A: The Oregon lupine needs consistent moisture during its growing season but should not be overwatered. Watering once a week should be sufficient, but adjust the watering schedule based on the plant’s needs and the soil’s moisture level.Q: Does the Oregon lupine attract pollinators?A: Yes, the Oregon lupine’s showy, blue-violet flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.Q: Can the Oregon lupine be propagated from seed?A: Yes, the Oregon lupine can be propagated from seed. Sow the seeds in the fall or early spring in a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
- Lupinus latifolius
- Lupinus arboreus
- Lupinus polyphyllus
- Lupinus albifrons
References
- “Lupinus oreganus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c460.
- “Lupinus oreganus.” PlantFiles. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/141030/.
- “Oregon Lupine.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LUOR.
