Introduction
Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii is a species of Lupine that is native to North America. This flowering perennial plant is a member of the Fabaceae family and is known for its showy yellow flowers.Common Names
Also known as Cusick's lupine, this plant is named after the botanist Edward Cusick who collected the first specimen in eastern Oregon.Appearance
Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii has a typical lupine appearance with a tall, erect stem that can reach a height of up to 40 inches. The leaves of the plant are palmately compound, with 5-9 leaflets that are oblanceolate or elliptic in shape. The flowers of the plant are typically yellow, with a distinctive banner, wings, and keel. The fruit of the plant is a pod that is typically hairy and contains several seeds.Uses
Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii has been used for a variety of purposes over the years. In some Native American cultures, the plant was used as a food source. The seeds were harvested and ground into a flour that was used to make bread. The plant has also been used to prevent soil erosion and as a source of nitrogen fixation for other plants. In addition, the plant is a popular ornamental, commonly used in gardens and landscaping due to its showy flowers.Light Requirements
Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii is a sun-loving plant that requires full sunlight to flourish. It can tolerate partial shade, but for optimal growth and flowering, it needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. So, it is crucial to plant them in a location where they can get enough sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii requires warm temperatures to germinate and grow. The ideal temperature range for seed germination is between 60-70°F (15.5-21°C). Once seedlings emerge, they need temperatures of around 70-80°F (21-27°C) for optimum growth. However, mature plants can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from freezing winter temperatures to scorching summer temperatures of up to 100°F (38°C).
Soil Requirements
Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii prefers well-draining, sandy-loamy soils that are slightly acidic. A soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for optimal growth. If the soil is too acidic, adding limestone or lime can help increase soil pH. The plant also prefers soils that are rich in organic matter such as leaf mold, compost, or aged manure. However, the soil should not be too nutrient-rich, or it may promote vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Cultivation Methods for Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii
Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii is a hardy plant that grows well in full to partial sunlight. It is advisable to plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant is a winter grower and prefers to be planted in fall or early spring.
The seeds should be planted about 1/4 inch deep in the soil and kept moist. The plant grows to a height of 2-3 feet, so it is essential to provide adequate space for it to grow. Thin the plants to about 12-18 inches apart to avoid overcrowding.
Watering Needs for Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii
Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii is a drought-tolerant plant, but it still requires regular watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.Over-watering can lead to root rot and other diseases. During the winter months, reduce the frequency of watering to prevent damage from frost.
Fertilization of Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii
It is advisable to fertilize Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii during its growing season. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, once every month or as required. Apply the fertilizer to the soil, ensuring that it does not touch the leaves or stem, then water the plant well.
Pruning Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii
Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii does not require regular pruning. However, you can cut back the plant's stems after it has finished flowering to promote denser growth and to avoid seed pod formation. Removing the seed pods helps to prevent self-seeding, which can quickly lead to overcrowding. You can also cut back dead or discolored leaves to maintain a healthy appearance
Propagation of Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii
Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii is typically propagated through seeds.
Seed Collection
The seeds should be collected in late summer or early fall when the seed pods ripen and turn brown.
Remove the entire seed pod from the plant and place it in a paper bag for further drying. Once the pod is completely dry, the seeds can be removed and stored in a cool, dark, and dry place until planting.
Seed Stratification
Before sowing the seeds, they must undergo stratification to break their natural dormancy.
Lupinus cusickii S. Wats. ssp. cusickii seeds can be stratified by placing them in a plastic bag with moist sand or peat moss and storing them in the refrigerator for six to eight weeks.
Sowing the Seeds
Seeds can be sown in the early spring or fall.
The optimal time for fall sowing is around two months before the first frost of the season, and for spring sowing, once the soil has warmed up to around 60°F.
The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1/4" and spaced around 12-18" apart.
Care and Maintenance
Once the seeds have been sown, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until the seedlings emerge. Watering should be reduced when the plants become established.
Seedlings can be transplanted once they have four true leaves and the danger of frost has passed. The young plants require partial shade until they reach maturity and can tolerate full sun.
