Lupinus Variicolor
Contents
Description
Lupinus Variicolor is a species of lupine that is native to California and Oregon in the United States. It is commonly known as the varied lupine due to the variations in the color of its flowers. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and has a spread of about 1 foot. It produces spikes of colorful flowers in shades of purple, pink, white, and blue during the spring and summer months. The plant has a deep taproot system that makes it drought-tolerant and ideal for xeriscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
Lupinus Variicolor has a bushy growth habit with stems that are covered in fine hairs. Its leaves are palmate and divided into 5-7 leaflets that are lance-shaped and gray-green in color. The plant produces spikes of flowers that are about 1 inch long and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers come in shades of purple, pink, white, and blue with a white or yellow spot on the banner petal. The plant produces seed pods that are about 2 inches long and contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Lupinus Variicolor is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant but requires regular watering during the first year of growth to establish its root system. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer months. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lupinus Variicolor is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and slugs. It is also prone to root rot and powdery mildew. To prevent these pests and diseases, avoid overwatering the plant and keep it well-ventilated. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids and spider mites. Handpick slugs and remove infected plant parts to prevent the spread of powdery mildew.
Habitat
Lupinus Variicolor is native to California and Oregon in the United States. It grows in a variety of habitats including coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and woodlands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lupinus Variicolor grow in containers?
A: Yes, Lupinus Variicolor can grow in containers as long as they are large enough and have good drainage.
Q: What is the best time to plant Lupinus Variicolor?
A: The best time to plant Lupinus Variicolor is in the fall or early spring.
Q: How often should I water Lupinus Variicolor?
A: Water Lupinus Variicolor deeply once a week during the first year of growth. After the plant is established, it can be watered every 2-3 weeks.
Q: How do I propagate Lupinus Variicolor?
A: Lupinus Variicolor can be propagated by seed or by taking cuttings.
Related Plants
- Lupinus Arboreus
- Lupinus Nanus
- Lupinus Perennis
- Lupinus Polyphyllus
References
- “Lupinus Variicolor.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Accessed 1 May 2021. http://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/720–lupinus-variicolor
- “Lupinus Variicolor.” Pacific Horticulture Society. Accessed 1 May 2021. https://www.pacifichorticulture.org/articles/lupinus-variicolor/
- “Lupinus Variicolor.” San Marcos Growers. Accessed 1 May 2021. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=2405
