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Description
Lupinus Polyphyllus Red Rum, commonly known as Red Rum Lupine, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America, specifically in the western region, and is known for its stunning red flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.This plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a well-branched stem and palmate leaves that are green and soft to the touch. The flowers grow in a tall and dense spike, with the top portion of the spike bearing the vibrant red flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
Red Rum Lupine is a beautiful plant that can add a pop of color to any garden. It has a well-branched stem that can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The palmate leaves are green and soft to the touch, with 6-9 leaflets that are about 2-3 inches long.The flowers grow in a tall and dense spike, with the top portion of the spike bearing the vibrant red flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. The flowers are about 1 inch long and grow in clusters, creating a stunning display of color.
Care Guide
Red Rum Lupine requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:Water: This plant requires consistent moisture, especially during its growing season. Water it regularly, taking care not to overwater it, as it can cause root rot.Fertilization: Use a well-balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.Soil: Plant Red Rum Lupine in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.Sunlight: This plant requires full sun to partial shade to thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as abundantly.Hardiness Zones: Red Rum Lupine is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like most plants, Red Rum Lupine is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and slugs are common pests that can damage this plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.Diseases: Powdery mildew and root rot are common diseases that can affect this plant. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Habitat
Red Rum Lupine is native to North America, specifically in the western region. It can be found in meadows, open woods, and along streams and rivers. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Red Rum Lupine a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Red Rum Lupine is a great plant for attracting bees and other pollinators.Q: Can Red Rum Lupine tolerate shade?
A: Yes, Red Rum Lupine can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as abundantly.Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Red Rum Lupine?
A: Red Rum Lupine prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.Q: How often should I fertilize Red Rum Lupine?
A: Use a well-balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Red Rum Lupine:- Lupinus Polyphyllus Blue- Lupinus Polyphyllus Gallery White- Lupinus Polyphyllus The Chatelaine
References
– “Lupinus Polyphyllus Red Rum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281717.- “Growing Lupines: How to Plant and Care for Lupine Flowers.” Gardening Know How, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/lupine/growing-lupines.htm.- “How to Grow and Care for Lupine.” The Spruce, https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-grow-and-care-for-lupine-1402520.
