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Description
Lupinus Regalis Gallery Blue is a stunning perennial plant that belongs to the Lupinus genus in the Fabaceae family. Its common names include Lupin, Blue Bonnets, and Texas Blue Bonnets. It is native to the United States and is a popular garden plant because of its beautiful blue-purple flowers that bloom in spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
Lupinus Regalis Gallery Blue grows up to 1-2 feet tall and 1-1.5 feet wide. It has a bushy and compact habit with palmate leaves that are green in color. The flowers are pea-shaped and grow in clusters on tall spikes. They are a beautiful deep blue-purple color and have a sweet fragrance. The plant blooms in spring and early summer and attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Lupinus Regalis Gallery Blue is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat the application in mid-summer if necessary.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can grow in sandy or loamy soil types.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as much.
- Hardiness Zones: Lupinus Regalis Gallery Blue is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lupinus Regalis Gallery Blue is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These tiny 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 pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly-drained soil. The plant may wilt and turn yellow. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent this disease.
Habitat
Lupinus Regalis Gallery Blue is native to the United States and can be found in many regions, including California, Texas, and the Great Plains. It grows in meadows, prairies, and open woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I propagate Lupinus Regalis Gallery Blue?
A: You can propagate the plant by seed or by division in early spring or fall. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they germinate. Division involves digging up the plant and separating the roots into smaller sections. Replant the sections in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lupinus Regalis Gallery Blue?
A: Fertilize the plant once in early spring and again in mid-summer if necessary. Use a balanced fertilizer according to the package instructions.
Q: Can I grow Lupinus Regalis Gallery Blue in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Use well-draining soil and water the plant regularly.
Q: Is Lupinus Regalis Gallery Blue toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it away from pets and children.
Related Plants
- Lupinus polyphyllus (Bigleaf Lupine)
- Lupinus texensis (Texas Bluebonnet)
- Lupinus perennis (Wild Lupine)
- Lupinus arboreus (Tree Lupin)
References
- “Lupinus regalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on 26 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278497&isprofile=0&basic=Lupinus%20regalis
- “Lupinus regalis.” PlantFiles. Accessed on 26 May 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/60151/
- “Lupinus regalis Gallery Blue.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed on 26 May 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/108463/Lupinus-regalis-Gallery-Blue/Details
