Description of Lupinus Excubitus M.E. Jones var. Johnstonii C.P. Sm.
Lupinus Excubitus M.E. Jones var. Johnstonii C.P. Sm. is a flowering perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is commonly known by many names such as the hollowleaf annual lupine, Johnston's lupine, and Indian Valley lupine. This plant is native to North America and is commonly found in California.
Appearance
The plant has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other varieties of lupines. It can grow up to one meter tall and has hollow stems with palmately compound leaves that consist of five to nine leaflets. The leaves are glabrous and are a silvery-green color. It has inflorescences that can be blue, purple or white in color. The flowers are borne on spikelike racemes with overlapping bracts that are covered in silver hairs. The plant usually blooms from April to June.
Uses
Lupinus Excubitus M.E. Jones var. Johnstonii C.P. Sm. has several uses. Historically, the plant has been used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes such as treating external wounds and sore eyes. It is also used as a food source by the indigenous tribes who roast the seeds and grind them to make flour. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. It is highly valued for its unique foliage and beautiful flowers. Nowadays, the plant is also used in reclamation projects to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
In conclusion, Lupinus Excubitus M.E. Jones var. Johnstonii C.P. Sm. is a unique and useful plant with multiple uses. From its gorgeous appearance to its medicinal and food value, this plant has made its mark in North America and continues to be a valued member of the Fabaceae family.
Light Requirements
Lupinus excubitus M.E. Jones var. johnstonii C.P. Sm. prefers full sunlight, but can tolerate some shade. It generally thrives in clearings, along the margins of oak woodlands, or in disturbed areas.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the southwestern United States and prefers a Mediterranean climate, with dry and warm summers and mild winters. It can tolerate occasional freezing temperatures, but prolonged cold weather may damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Lupinus excubitus M.E. Jones var. johnstonii C.P. Sm. prefers well-drained, sandy, or gravelly soils with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. It can also tolerate neutral to slightly acidic conditions. This plant is adapted to dry conditions and does not do well in areas with high water tables or excessive moisture.
Cultivation methods
Lupinus excubitus M.E. Jones var. johnstonii C.P. Sm., commonly known as Johnston's lupine, is a perennial plant that thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It grows best in well-drained soil that is not waterlogged. Since they have a long taproot, planting should be done in situ rather than transplanting as it might disturb the roots. It is recommended to sow the seeds in late summer or early fall, and they will germinate in the spring.
Watering needs
It is crucial to water Johnston's lupine regularly, especially in the first year after planting, to establish its root system. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and don't require frequent watering. However, during prolonged dry spells, watering can be done to help them maintain their vigor.
Fertilization
Johnston's lupine is a legume, so it has a unique ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. Therefore, it doesn't require much fertilization. However, it can benefit from a light top-dressing of compost or organic fertilizer before the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is not a requirement for Johnston's lupine, but it can improve the plant's appearance and increase flowering. Deadheading the spent flowers will encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding if it's not desired. To avoid damaging the plant, it's best to cut the flower stalk at the base rather than snipping off individual flowers.
Propagation of Lupinus excubitus M.E. Jones var. johnstonii C.P. Sm.
Lupinus excubitus M.E. Jones var. johnstonii C.P. Sm. is a native plant of North America and can be propagated through several methods. The plant's propagation methods include seed propagation, cuttings propagation, and division propagation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Lupinus excubitus M.E. Jones var. johnstonii C.P. Sm. Seeds can be collected from the plant's dry pods after they have matured. The seeds must be treated with hot water to enhance germination and then sown in well-drained soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the germination of the seeds may take 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings can also be propagated from Lupinus excubitus M.E. Jones var. johnstonii C.P. Sm. Cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant in the spring while the new growth is still tender. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil. The plant should be kept moist in a humid environment until roots develop.
Division propagation
Division propagation is another method of propagating Lupinus excubitus M.E. Jones var. johnstonii C.P. Sm. This method involves dividing the plant's root clumps, which can be done in spring or fall. The clumps should be lifted from the ground, and the roots should be carefully separated. Each division should have several shoots and roots. The new divisions should be planted immediately in well-drained soil and kept moist.
Disease and Pest Management for Lupinus excubitus M.E. Jones var. johnstonii C.P. Sm.
Lupinus excubitus M.E. Jones var. johnstonii C.P. Sm., commonly known as the Johnston's lupine, is a beautiful plant that is known for its stunning blue or purple flowers. Although it is a hardy plant that is highly resistant to drought, it is not impervious to disease and pest infestations. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Anthracnose: This fungal disease manifests as brown or black spots on the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers. The affected areas may have a sunken appearance.
Management: Remove and destroy the infected parts of the plant. Spray the remaining plant with a fungicide to prevent the disease from spreading. Ensure that the plant is properly aerated, and avoid overhead watering.
2. Bacterial Wilt: This bacterial disease causes wilting, necrosis, and eventually death of the plant. It spreads through water, insects, and contaminated soil.
Management: There is no known cure for this disease, so prevention is the best option. Avoid overwatering the plant and ensure proper drainage. Use sterilized soil and tools when planting. Destroy infected plants to prevent the disease from spreading.
3. Root Rot: This fungal disease infects the plant's roots and causes them to become brown, mushy, and breakable. The infected plant may wilt, become discolored, and eventually die.
Management: Remove any infected parts of the plant. Ensure proper drainage and watering of the plant. Use a fungicide to stop the spread of the disease. Do not over-fertilize the plant.
Pests
1. Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be found on the undersides of the plant's leaves. They suck sap from the plant, causing its leaves to yellow and curl.
Management: Use insecticides or natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings. Spray the plant with water to remove the aphids.
2. Snails and slugs: These mollusks feed on the plant's leaves and flowers, leaving large holes in their wake.
Management: Use traps or baits to attract and kill them. Hand-pick them off the plant, especially during the night. Apply copper tape or powder around the plant to prevent them from approaching.
3. Thrips: These tiny insects feed on the plant's flowers, causing them to turn brown and drop off prematurely.
Management: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the thrips. Remove any debris or weeds in the area that may serve as a breeding ground for the pests.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, you can ensure that your Lupinus excubitus M.E. Jones var. johnstonii C.P. Sm. remains healthy and vibrant.
