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Description
Lupinus Polyphyllus The Governor, commonly known as Lupine or Lupin, is a flowering perennial plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. The Governor variety is a tall and striking plant that can grow up to 4-5 feet in height. Its stunning flower spikes bloom in shades of blue, pink, purple, and white during the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Kingdom| Phylum| Class| Order| Family| Genus|| ———– | ———–| ———–| ———–| ———–| ———–| ———–|| Eukaryota| Plantae| Spermatophyta| Magnoliopsida| Fabales| Fabaceae| Lupinus|
Appearance
Lupinus Polyphyllus The Governor has a basal rosette of leaves that are palmately compound, with five to nine leaflets. The leaves can be up to 10 inches long and are hairy and soft to the touch. The plant produces tall flower spikes that can grow up to 12 inches long. The flowers have a distinctive pea-like shape and come in a range of colors, including blue, pink, purple, and white.
Care Guide
Lupinus Polyphyllus The Governor is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Lupines prefer well-drained soil and should be watered consistently. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. – Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. – Soil: Lupines grow best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. – Sunlight: Lupines prefer full sun or partial shade. – Hardiness Zones: These plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lupines are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to the following:- Aphids: These small insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. – Slugs and Snails: These pests can be controlled by removing debris around the plant and setting up beer traps. – Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can be controlled with fungicidal sprays.
Habitat
Lupinus Polyphyllus The Governor is native to western North America but has been introduced to other parts of the world. It grows best in moist, well-drained soils in full sun or partial shade. These plants can be found in meadows, open woods, and along streams and rivers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Lupinus Polyphyllus The Governor in a container?
A: It is possible to grow Lupines in a container, but they prefer to be planted in the ground.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Lupines?
A: Lupines only need to be fertilized once a year in the spring.
Q: Do Lupines attract bees?
A: Yes, Lupines are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: Are Lupines deer-resistant?
A: Lupines are not deer-resistant and may need to be protected from browsing deer.
Related Plants
– Lupinus Arboreus- Lupinus Perennis- Lupinus Texensis- Lupinus Laxiflorus
References
– “Lupinus polyphyllus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b599.- “Lupinus Polyphyllus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12350/Lupinus-polyphyllus-The-Governor/Details. – “Growing Lupines: How to Plant and Care for Lupine Flowers.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/lupine/growing-lupines.htm.
