Contents
Description
Lupinus Purple Swirl is a stunning perennial plant that belongs to the Lupinus genus. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and is native to North America. The plant produces beautiful, tall spikes of flowers that bloom in shades of purple and white. The blooms are fragrant and attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
Lupinus Purple Swirl can grow up to 3 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide. The plant produces dense spikes of pea-like flowers that can grow up to 12 inches long. The flowers are arranged in a spiral pattern, which gives the plant its unique swirl-like appearance. The flowers bloom in shades of purple and white, with the purple becoming more prominent as the plant ages. The plant’s leaves are palmate and have a blue-green color.
Care Guide
Lupinus Purple Swirl is a low maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy and thriving:- Water: Lupinus Purple Swirl prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: The plant doesn’t require a lot of fertilizer, but you can give it a boost by applying a balanced fertilizer in the spring.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy, amend it with compost or other organic matter before planting.- Sunlight: Lupinus Purple Swirl prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure to plant it in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lupinus Purple Swirl is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be prevented by planting the plant in a spot with good air circulation. The plant can also be affected by aphids and slugs, which can be controlled using insecticidal soap and slug bait, respectively.
Habitat
Lupinus Purple Swirl is native to North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open woodlands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lupinus Purple Swirl grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Lupinus Purple Swirl?
A: The plant doesn’t require a lot of fertilizer, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to give it a boost.
Q: Can Lupinus Purple Swirl be grown from seed?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown from seed. However, it can take up to two years for the plant to bloom when grown from seed.
Q: Is Lupinus Purple Swirl toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets and children.
Related Plants
– Lupinus polyphyllus ‘Russell Hybrid’- Lupinus hartwegii ‘The Governor’- Lupinus albifrons ‘Silver Bush’- Lupinus perennis ‘Lupine Sundial’
References
– American Meadows. (n.d.). Lupinus Purple Swirl. https://www.americanmeadows.com/perennials/lupines/lupinus-purple-swirl- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Lupinus polyphyllus. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b631- The Spruce. (n.d.). Lupine Plant Profile. https://www.thespruce.com/lupine-growing-profile-4155941
