Overview
Lupinus campbellae Eastw. var. bernardianus Eastw., commonly known as Bernard Peak lupine, is a perennial plant species from the Fabaceae family. This plant is endemic to the Siskiyou Mountains in Southern Oregon and Northern California. The plant is popular for its stunning blue-violet bloom.
Appearance
The Bernard Peak lupine can reach up to 1 meter in height. It has a simple or sparsely-branched stem that is slick, hairy, and coated with glandular hairs that produce a strong scent. Its green leaves are arranged in an alternate manner and have a palmate shape with 5-11 leaflets. The leaflets are narrow, elongated, and pointed at the tip.
The standout feature of the Bernard Peak lupine is its striking blue-violet flowers. Each flower has a symmetrical, pea-like shape with a fused petal that forms a banner, keel, and wings. The flowers grow in dense whorls atop a long, upright stalk.
Uses
The Bernard Peak lupine is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. The plant is also important for ecological reasons, providing a valuable food source for the larvae of the endangered mission blue butterfly.
Due to its restricted range, the Bernard Peak lupine is considered a threatened species, and its collection is closely monitored.
Overall, Lupinus campbellae Eastw. var. bernardianus Eastw. is a visually striking and ecologically important plant that deserves preservation for future generations to enjoy.Light Requirements
Lupinus campbellae Eastw. var. bernardianus Eastw. thrives in full sun exposure and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day for optimum growth. In partial shade, the plant may not produce as many flowers or may become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a mild climate with moderate temperatures. Temperatures below 20°F (-6°C) and above 90°F (32°C) can cause damage to the plant. Lupinus campbellae Eastw. var. bernardianus Eastw. can tolerate light frost but cannot survive a heavy freeze or prolonged exposure to high heat.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter such as compost or aged manure. Lupinus campbellae Eastw. var. bernardianus Eastw. prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. If the soil is too alkaline, the plant may suffer from nutrient deficiencies. The soil should also be moist but not waterlogged as standing water can cause root rot.
Cultivation methods
Lupinus campbellae Eastw. var. bernardianus Eastw. is a perennial plant that requires well-drained soil and a location with plenty of sunlight. It can be grown from seeds or propagated through cuttings. If growing from seeds, it is best to plant them in the fall, allowing them to overwinter before germinating in the spring.
When planting, it is important to space the seedlings at least 12 inches apart to allow for adequate growth. The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil pH of around 6.0 to 6.5.
Watering needs
Lupinus campbellae Eastw. var. bernardianus Eastw. prefers moist soil but does not tolerate standing water, so it is essential not to overwater. Water regularly during the growing season, especially during dry spells. A layer of organic mulch around the plant can help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilization
Too much nitrogen can cause Lupinus campbellae Eastw. var. bernardianus Eastw. to grow tall and spindly, so it is best to fertilize sparingly. To encourage healthy growth, use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-10. Apply in early spring, and once more in early summer. Adding compost or well-rotted manure to the soil can also provide additional nutrients.
Pruning
Although Lupinus campbellae Eastw. var. bernardianus Eastw. does not require much pruning, it can benefit from deadheading to promote new growth and prolong flowering. This involves removing spent flowers by cutting the stem back to a leaf node. In fall, after the foliage has died back, cut the stems to the ground to allow for new growth in the spring.
Propagation of Lupinus campbellae Eastw. var. bernardianus Eastw.
Propagation of Lupinus campbellae Eastw. var. bernardianus Eastw. can be done by seed or cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seeds should be planted in their permanent location in the fall after the first rains or in early spring. Scarification treatment should be done to the seeds before planting. The seeds will germinate within two weeks to a month.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings can be taken in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be 3-4 inches long and taken from the tips of the stem. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting.
Dip the cutting in water and then in rooting hormone before planting it in a pot with a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be placed in a partially shaded area, and the soil kept moist. The cutting should root within a few weeks and can be transplanted to its permanent location the following spring.
Disease and Pest Management for Lupinus Campbellae Eastw. var. Bernardianus Eastw.
Lupinus campbellae Eastw. var. bernardianus Eastw., commonly known as San Bernardino Mountains lupine, is a rare plant species found in southern California. As with any plant, San Bernardino Mountains lupine is susceptible to pests and diseases that may affect its growth and development. Therefore, it is important to identify these common diseases and pests that can affect San Bernardino Mountains lupine and use preventative measures to manage them in order to maintain the optimal health of the plant.
Common Diseases of San Bernardino Mountains Lupine
San Bernardino Mountains lupine is prone to a few diseases, including:
- Root Rot: A fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to decay and ultimately killing the plant. To manage root rot, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil is well-draining.
- Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that produces a powdery white coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, ensure there is good air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and prune away any infected plant parts.
- Bacterial Wilt: A bacterial disease that causes wilting, yellowing, and browning of the leaves. Infected plants should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of this disease.
Common Pests of San Bernardino Mountains Lupine
San Bernardino Mountains lupine is also vulnerable to several pests like:
- Aphids: Small insects that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: Tiny mites that feed on the plant’s cells, causing discoloration and curling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, rinse the plant with water or use insecticidal soap.
- Snails and Slugs: These slow-moving creatures feed on the plant’s leaves, causing holes and browning. To manage snails and slugs, handpick them off the plant or use a slug bait.
By following proper cultivation practices like regular watering and fertilization, ensuring proper sunlight, and implementing the suggested management techniques as necessary, we can control and prevent diseases and pests in San Bernardino Mountains lupine, promoting healthy plant growth and productivity.
