Origin
Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. is a member of the Fabaceae family and is native to western North America, specifically the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. This plant is commonly found in open meadows, rocky slopes, and woodland areas.
Common Names
Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. is commonly known as dwarf lupine, sky lupine, or pale lupine. These common names refer to the plant's small size and delicate appearance, as well as its light-colored flowers.
Uses
Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. has been used medicinally by various Native American tribes, including the Shasta, Klamath, and Wasco peoples. The plant is known for its antibacterial properties and has been used to treat infections and wounds. Additionally, the seeds of this plant are edible and have historically been used as a food source by indigenous peoples.
General Appearance
Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. is a small, herbaceous annual plant. It typically grows to be no taller than 1 foot (30 cm) and has a compact, rounded shape. The plant's leaves are bright green and palm-shaped, with 5-7 leaflets per leaf. The flowers of Lupinus nanus are small and delicate, with a soft lilac or pale blue color. The plant blooms in the late spring and early summer months, from May to July.
Light Requirements
Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. requires full sun to grow and thrive. It cannot tolerate shade for extended periods.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a cool growing environment with temperatures ranging from 45 to 65°F (7 to 18°C). The ideal temperatures for growing Lupinus nanus are between 55 to 60°F (13 to 16°C). It is important to note that high temperatures can cause the plant to go dormant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils. It cannot tolerate heavy clay soils that retain water. The soil pH must be between 5.5 to 7.5 for optimal growth. Good drainage is also essential for healthy growth as the plant cannot tolerate wet feet.
Cultivation Methods
Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. is best grown in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The plant can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors and transplanted once established. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch and spaced 6 to 8 inches apart. It is important to keep the soil moist during germination and establishment, but be careful not to overwater as this can cause root rot.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. depend on the growing conditions and climate. In general, the plant prefers evenly moist soil and does not tolerate drought. However, overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems. It is best to water deeply and infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Monitor the soil moisture regularly and adjust the watering schedule as needed.
Fertilization
Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied at planting and then again every 4 to 6 weeks throughout the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
Pruning
Pruning Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. is not necessary for the health of the plant, but it can help to promote bushier growth and extend the blooming period. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage the development of new buds. If the plant becomes lanky or leggy, it can be pinched back by 1/3 to 1/2 in the early summer to encourage branching and fuller growth.
Propagation of Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm.
Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. can be propagated by seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. can be sown directly in the soil. Prepare the soil by removing weeds, rocks, and other debris. The soil should be well-draining and loose. Plant the seeds 2-3 cm deep and 15-30 cm apart. Water the soil to keep it moist. The seeds will germinate in 10-15 days.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Take a stem cutting from a healthy plant of Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. during the growing season. The cutting should be 5-10 cm long and should have at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix. Water the soil to keep it moist. Keep the cutting in a shaded area and the soil temperature between 20-25°C. The cutting will root in 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. can be propagated by dividing the root clumps. Wait for the growing season to end and the plant to go dormant. Dig up the clump and separate the individual plants. Replant the plants in a well-draining soil, water it well, and keep the soil moist.
Disease Management
Lupinus nanus Dougl. ex Benth. var. apricus (Greene) C.P. Sm. is generally resilient to most diseases. However, certain fungal and bacterial pathogens can cause issues in the plant.
One common fungal disease that affects Lupinus nanus is powdery mildew. This disease presents as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove and dispose of infected plant material and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Additionally, fungicidal sprays may be used if the infection is severe.
Another fungal disease that can affect Lupinus nanus is rust. Rust appears as orange or brown spots on the leaves and stems. Remove and dispose of infected plant material and apply a fungicidal spray to prevent further spread.
Bacterial crown and stem rot can also be an issue for Lupinus nanus. This disease presents as soft, brown spots on the stem near the base of the plant. To avoid crown and stem rot, ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. If an infection occurs, remove and dispose of infected plant material and avoid planting other lupine species in the same location.
Pest Management
Several pests can affect Lupinus nanus, including aphids, spider mites, and cutworms.
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can be managed by washing them off the plant with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the underside of leaves. They can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Spider mites can be managed by washing the leaves with a strong jet of water or by applying insecticidal soap.
Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the stem of the plant, causing it to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, remove any visible caterpillars and apply a biological control, such as Bacillus thuringiensis, to the soil around the plant.
It is important to regularly monitor Lupinus nanus for signs of pest and disease issues and to take appropriate action as soon as possible to prevent further spread.
