Origin
Lupinus caudatus Kellogg var. cutleri (Eastw.) Welsh is a species of lupine native to the western United States, specifically the Great Basin region. It can be found in Idaho, Nevada, and Utah, growing in dry, rocky or sandy soils
Common Names
This species of lupine has several common names, including Cutler's lupine, tailcup lupine, and Kellogg's wild lupine.
General Appearance
Cutler's lupine is an herbaceous perennial plant that grows to a height of about 2 feet. It has a single, upright stem with palmate leaves composed of 5-9 leaflets. The leaves are covered in fine white hairs. The flowers are arranged in a tall, narrow spike, and are typically blue or purple in color. The fruit is a hairy pod that contains one to several seeds.
Uses
Cutler's lupine is an important plant for the survival of several species of butterfly, including the endangered Taylor's checkerspot butterfly. The larvae of this butterfly feed exclusively on the leaves of Cutler's lupine. In addition, this plant has been used by some Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, such as treating snake bites and burns. However, the plant does contain toxic alkaloids and should be used with caution.
Light Requirements
Lupinus caudatus Kellogg var. cutleri requires full sunlight exposure to thrive. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but full sun exposure is ideal for vigorous growth and blooming.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm and temperate climates with moderate temperatures ranging from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius. Lupinus caudatus Kellogg var. cutleri prefers a cooler nighttime temperature of around 12 to 15 degrees Celsius. The plant is relatively cold hardy and can withstand light frost.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils that are slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and it should retain some moisture without being waterlogged. Lupinus caudatus Kellogg var. cutleri can tolerate sandy, loamy, or clay soils but perform best in fertile, well-drained sandy loams.
Cultivation of Lupinus Caudatus Kellogg Var. Cutleri (Eastw.) Welsh
Lupinus caudatus Kellogg var. cutleri (Eastw.) Welsh is a beautiful plant that can add a touch of color to any garden or landscape. If you plan to cultivate this plant, you should follow these guidelines.
Planting and Watering Needs
Lupinus caudatus Kellogg var. cutleri (Eastw.) Welsh likes well-draining soil and prefers to be planted in a sunny spot. It needs moderate watering, and the soil should not become too soggy. Therefore, you should avoid overwatering the plant. When you water this plant, soak the soil until it is moist to the touch but not dripping.
Fertilization of Lupinus Caudatus Kellogg Var. Cutleri (Eastw.) Welsh
This plant is not a heavy feeder, and you do not need to fertilize it frequently. You can add compost or a slow-release fertilizer to the soil during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Pruning Lupinus Caudatus Kellogg Var. Cutleri (Eastw.) Welsh
This plant does not require regular pruning, but you should remove any dead or damaged stems or leaves. Prune the plant lightly at the end of the growing season to promote bushier growth and prepare it for the following season.
By following these steps, you can successfully cultivate and care for Lupinus caudatus Kellogg var. cutleri (Eastw.) Welsh and enjoy its beautiful blooms for years to come.
Propagation of Lupinus caudatus Kellogg var. cutleri (Eastw.) Welsh
Lupinus caudatus Kellogg var. cutleri (Eastw.) Welsh, commonly known as Cutler's lupine, is a perennial herb that is found in dry, open areas in the western United States. The plant produces tall, showy spikes of blue-purple flowers, making it a popular ornamental plant.
Seed Propagation
The most common method for propagating Cutler's lupine is through seed propagation. Seeds should be collected from mature plants in the fall after the seed pods have turned brown and started to split open. Seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until ready to sow in the spring.
Before sowing, the seeds should be scarified by either nicking the seed coat or soaking them in hot water for several hours. This will allow for better seed germination rates. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, covering the seeds with a light layer of soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide bright, filtered light until the seedlings have established.
Clump Division
Cutler's lupine can also be propagated through clump division. This method is best done in the spring before new growth appears or in the fall after the plant has finished flowering. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the root clumps, making sure each clump has several healthy shoots. Replant the clumps in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Keep the newly divided plants in a shaded area and provide plenty of moisture until new growth appears.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be taken from young, non-woody stems of Cutler's lupine. Take cuttings in the spring or early summer, making sure to use a clean and sharp pair of pruning shears. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant in a soilless mix. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, filtered light until the cutting has established roots and new growth appears.
Disease Management
Lupinus caudatus Kellogg var. cutleri is prone to several diseases, including:
- Fusarium wilt: This fungal disease causes wilting, yellowing, and death of leaves, stems, and flowers. It is spread through contaminated seed or soil, infected plant debris, and contaminated tools. To manage Fusarium wilt, remove and destroy infected plants and avoid planting Lupinus caudatus in the same location for several years.
- Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that is characterized by a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It is caused by high humidity and poor air circulation. To manage powdery mildew, prune affected areas and improve air circulation by removing neighboring plants or thinning foliage.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by fungal or bacterial diseases and is characterized by small brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Lupinus caudatus Kellogg var. cutleri is also vulnerable to attack by several pests, including:
- Aphids: These small insects suck plant sap and cause curling, deformation, and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
- Thrips: These tiny insects attack leaves and flowers and cause discoloration and deformation. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and introduce natural predators like thrips predators (Amblyseius cucumeris).
- Cutworms: These caterpillars feed on the stem just above the soil line, causing wilting and death of the plant. To manage cutworms, handpick them at night or use biological controls like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
Regular monitoring of Lupinus caudatus Kellogg var. cutleri and taking prompt action against diseases and pests can help maintain the plant's health and vigor.
