Plant Description:
Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm. is a member of the Fabaceae (pea) family. This perennial herbaceous plant grows up to 1.5 meters tall. It has a single unbranched stem and alternate, palmate leaves with 6 to 9 leaflets.
Origin:
Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm. is native to western North America. It can be found from British Columbia, Canada, down to California, USA.
Common Names:
The plant has a variety of common names in different regions, including Broadleaf Lupine, California Lupine, and Greenleaf Lupine.
Uses:
Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm. has been used by various Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, such as treating skin inflammation, colds, and rheumatism. Some tribes also used the plant for dyeing purposes. In addition, the plant is often used in landscaping and as a food source for livestock as well as foraging animals, such as deer and rabbits.
The plant contains alkaloids that can be toxic if ingested in large quantities, so caution should be exercised when handling the plant.
Light Requirements
Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm. thrives in areas with full to partial sunlight. This species can grow in areas with shady conditions, but it will not bloom as well compared to those planted in areas with more sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This variety of Lupinus latifolius grows well in areas with cooler temperatures. It can survive in temperatures ranging from 40°F to 100°F. However, this plant does not thrive well in very hot and humid conditions.
Soil Requirements
Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm. prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soils with moderate to low fertility. This plant can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy loam to rocky clay soils. However, it cannot survive in waterlogged soils.
Cultivation Methods
Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm. is a native plant that thrives in well-draining soil with full sun exposure. It can tolerate a wide range of soils but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The ideal planting time is in the early spring after the last frost. Sow seeds ? inch deep and 4-6 inches apart, then soak the soil thoroughly. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 10-20 days. Thin the seedlings to a spacing of 12-15 inches apart.
Watering Needs
Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm. requires moderate watering, especially during the establishment phase. Water the plant deeply to encourage deep root growth. Do not overwater as this can lead to root rot and fungal diseases. Allow the top 1 inch of soil to dry out between watering sessions. During hot and dry periods, increase the frequency of watering but avoid watering in the evening.
Fertilization
Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm. does not need regular fertilization if it is grown in nutrient-rich soil. However, if the plant seems stunted or the foliage is pale, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring or late fall. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as this can promote leafy growth at the expense of flower production. Instead, apply a slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-10.
Pruning
Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm. does not require frequent pruning. However, removing spent flower spikes can promote continuous blooming. After the first bloom, cut back the stem to just above the base of the foliage. This will promote new growth and secondary flowering. In late fall or early winter, cut back the foliage to a few inches above the ground. This will help the plant survive the winter and produce a full growth in the following spring.
Propagation of Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm.
The propagation of Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm. can be accomplished through several methods. Here are the main ways to propagate this plant:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm. Start by collecting the seeds in late summer or early fall, after the pods have turned brown. Scarification of the seeds is advised as the seed coat is hard and may impede germination. Soak the seeds in boiling water for 30 seconds, then let them soak for a day. Plant the Lupinus latifolius seeds in pots filled with well-draining potting mix and provide bright, indirect light. Germination typically occurs in two to three weeks. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle.
Cutting Propagation
Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm. is also amenable to cutting propagation. Cuttings should be taken from the plant during the growing season, ideally in the spring. Select a stem with healthy leaves and no buds. Cut a piece of stem about four to six inches long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a container filled with moist potting mix. Cover the container with a plastic bag to retain moisture, and place it in a warm, bright location. Roots should develop in four to six weeks.
Division Propagation
Propagation by division is also possible for Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius (Heller) Kenney & D. Dunn var. viridifolius (Heller) C.P. Sm., but it is less common since this plant has a taproot and is difficult to divide. However, if you have a mature plant that has formed multiple branches, take great care to loosen the soil around the roots and remove a branch with its attached root system. Plant the new division in a pot or a new planting bed, taking care to avoid disturbing the roots further.
Disease Management
Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius var. viridifolius is susceptible to various diseases, including anthracnose, powdery mildew, root rot, and rust. Proper disease management is crucial for maximizing the plant's yield and quality.
To manage anthracnose, it is important to remove and destroy infected plant debris. Fungicides can also be applied preventively during wet seasons. Powdery mildew can be managed by providing good air circulation and spacing the plants properly. Fungicides can also be used as a preventative measure.
Root rot can be managed by avoiding overwatering and planting the plants in well-draining soil. Fungicides can also be applied as a preventative measure. Rust can be managed by removing infected plant debris and applying fungicides preventively.
Pest Management
Lupinus latifolius Lindl. ex J.G. Agardh ssp. viridifolius var. viridifolius is also susceptible to various pests, including aphids, cutworms, and slugs. Proper pest management is essential for maximizing the yield and quality of the plant.
Aphids can be managed by washing the plants with a strong blast of water to dislodge them. Insecticidal soap and neem oil are also effective in managing aphids. Cutworms can be managed by placing collars around the plants and removing them by hand. Bacillus thuringiensis is also effective in managing cutworms.
Slugs can be managed by applying diatomaceous earth or by using slug baits. Copper tape around the base of the plants can also prevent slugs from reaching the plant. Handpicking and removing slugs is also effective.
