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Description
Lupinus Rachel De Thame is a beautiful perennial plant that belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae. It is named after the famous British horticulturist Rachel De Thame. This plant is primarily known for its showy spikes of blue, pink, and purple flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping. The plant is native to North America but is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
Lupinus Rachel De Thame can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has palmate leaves that are green on top and silvery-white underneath. The flowers grow in spikes that can be up to 1 foot long and are usually blue, pink, or purple. The plant produces pods that contain seeds.
Care Guide
Lupinus Rachel De Thame is a relatively low maintenance plant. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the summer months.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Lupinus Rachel De Thame grows best in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like most plants, Lupinus Rachel De Thame is susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Crown rot: This disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. Avoid overwatering and make sure the soil is well-draining.
- Leaf spot: This disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and make sure the plant has good air circulation.
Habitat
Lupinus Rachel De Thame is native to North America and can be found in many parts of the United States and Canada. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. It grows best in zones 4-8.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lupinus Rachel De Thame a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s showy flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Does Lupinus Rachel De Thame need to be pruned?
A: No, the plant does not need to be pruned but deadheading can encourage more blooms.
Q: Can Lupinus Rachel De Thame be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Lupinus Rachel De Thame?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during the summer months. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
- Lupinus perennis
- Lupinus texensis
- Lupinus argenteus
References
- “Lupinus ‘Rachel de Thame’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f760
- “Lupinus.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 5 Oct. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lupinus.
- “Lupinus ‘Rachel De Thame’.” Plant Finder, www.gardenia.net/plant/lupinus-rachel-de-thame.
