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Description
Lupinus Perennis, commonly known as wild lupine or sundial lupine, is a beautiful herbaceous perennial that belongs to the family of Fabaceae. It is native to North America, specifically in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada. This plant can reach up to 3 feet in height and 1-2 feet in width, producing a tall and erect stalk with blue, purple, or pinkish flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
The Lupinus Perennis plant has a unique and beautiful appearance. It has an erect stem that can grow up to 3 feet tall and is covered with silvery hairs. The leaves are palmately compound, with 7-11 leaflets that are green on the upper surface and paler on the underside. The flowers are arranged in a tall, dense spike with 20-50 flowers per spike. Each flower has a characteristic pea-like shape with a banner, wings, and keel.
Care Guide
Wild lupines are hardy plants that require little maintenance. Here are some care tips to help your Lupinus Perennis plant thrive:
- Water: These plants prefer well-drained soil and do not like to be overly wet. Water your wild lupine plant only when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Fertilization: Lupines don’t need much fertilizer. However, if you want to fertilize, use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Wild lupines prefer well-drained soil that is slightly acidic (pH 6.0-6.5).
- Sunlight: These plants prefer full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Lupinus Perennis plants are hardy in zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wild lupines are generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, they are susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Some common pests that can affect wild lupines include aphids, spider mites, and slugs. If you notice any pests or diseases, remove the affected parts of the plant and treat with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Lupinus Perennis is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including open woods, prairies, and meadows. It prefers well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. This plant is an important food source for the Karner Blue butterfly larva and is often planted to help restore habitats for this endangered species.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lupinus Perennis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, wild lupines can be grown in containers. However, make sure the container is at least 12 inches deep and wide to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should I water my Lupinus Perennis plant?
A: Water your wild lupine plant only when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: Is Lupinus Perennis a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, wild lupines are a great plant for pollinators, especially bees and butterflies.
Q: How long does the Lupinus Perennis plant bloom?
A: The flowers of the wild lupine plant bloom from late spring to early summer.
Related Plants
- Lupinus Polyphyllus (Bigleaf Lupine)
- Lupinus Texensis (Texas Bluebonnet)
- Lupinus Subcarnosus (Sandyland Bluebonnet)
- Lupinus Arcticus (Arctic Lupine)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Lupinus Perennis
- Michigan State University Extension: Wild Lupine: A Plant for the Karner Blue Butterfly Habitat Restoration
- North Carolina State Extension: Wild Lupine
