Contents
Description
Lupinus Sellulus is a species of lupine that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to California and is commonly found in grasslands, oak woodlands, and chaparral habitats. The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and has a spread of 0.5 meters. It has a deep taproot that allows it to access nutrients and moisture from deep within the soil. The plant blooms from May to July and produces bright blue-violet flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
Lupinus Sellulus has a distinctive appearance with its tall stems and palmate leaves. The leaves are green and divided into 5-9 leaflets. The flowers are arranged in a spike and are bright blue-violet in color. Each flower has a white patch at the base, which serves as a landing platform for pollinators. The plant produces pods that contain seeds with a hard outer coat. The seeds are dispersed by animals such as ants and rodents.
Care Guide
Lupinus Sellulus is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary as the plant can fix nitrogen from the air. Lupinus Sellulus is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lupinus Sellulus is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These can be treated with fungicides. The plant may also attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Lupinus Sellulus is native to California and is commonly found in grasslands, oak woodlands, and chaparral habitats. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types and is often found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields. The plant is an important food source for pollinators and is a host plant for the larvae of several butterfly species.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lupinus Sellulus poisonous?
A: Lupinus Sellulus is not poisonous to humans or animals. However, the plant contains alkaloids that can cause digestive upset if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Lupinus Sellulus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lupinus Sellulus can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s deep taproot.
Q: How often should I water Lupinus Sellulus?
A: Lupinus Sellulus is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods.
Q: How can I propagate Lupinus Sellulus?
A: Lupinus Sellulus can be propagated by seed or by division. Seeds can be sown in the fall or early spring, while division should be done in the fall.
Related Plants
- Lupinus arboreus
- Lupinus bicolor
- Lupinus chamissonis
- Lupinus latifolius
- Lupinus nanus
References
- “Lupinus Sellulus.” Calflora. Retrieved 20 July 2021. <https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=5066>
- “Lupinus Sellulus.” USDA Plants. Retrieved 20 July 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LUSE2>
- “Lupinus Sellulus.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Retrieved 20 July 2021. <https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/310–lupinus-sellulus>
