Origin
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. arcticus (S. Wats.) L. Phillips, commonly known as arctic lupine, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America. It is found in the arctic and boreal regions of Alaska, Canada, and Greenland.
Common Names
Arctic lupine is known by a variety of common names, including Alaskan lupine, bigleaf lupine, and Russell lupine.
Uses
Arctic lupine is commonly used in landscape restoration projects due to its ability to fix nitrogen and improve soil quality. Additionally, it is sometimes used as a forage crop for livestock. However, it is important to note that certain varieties of Lupinus polyphyllus are known to contain toxic alkaloids that can be harmful if ingested.
General Appearance
Arctic lupine is a tall, erect plant that can reach heights of up to six feet. It has large, palmate leaves and produces showy, pea-like flowers that range in color from purple to pink to white. The blooms appear on long, upright stalks in early summer.
Light Requirements
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. arcticus (S. Wats.) L. Phillips thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but for optimal growth and bloom, it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adapted to cold environments and can withstand temperatures below freezing. However, it grows best in temperatures ranging from 18-22°C (65-72°F) during the day and 8-15°C (45-59°F) at night. At higher temperatures, the growth rate slows down, and the plant is prone to dehydration.
Soil Requirements
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. arcticus (S. Wats.) L. Phillips prefers rich, well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It doesn't tolerate waterlogged or compacted soils. The plant can grow in different soil textures, from sandy to loamy, but it requires high levels of organic matter.
Cultivation
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. arcticus (S. Wats.) L. Phillips can be cultivated in a wide range of soils, from acidic to alkaline, as long as they are well-draining. Planting should be done in the early spring or fall, and the plant should be placed in an area with full sun or partial shade. It is important to space each plant around 18 to 24 inches apart to ensure proper growth and development.
Watering Needs
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. arcticus (S. Wats.) L. Phillips requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water the plant deeply every 7 to 10 days, or when the soil is dry to the touch. During hot summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. arcticus (S. Wats.) L. Phillips benefits from fertilization once a year in the spring. A balanced granular fertilizer can be applied around the plant, and then watered in thoroughly. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. arcticus (S. Wats.) L. Phillips, but deadheading spent blooms can encourage continued flowering and prevent seed production. At the end of the growing season, the plant can be cut back to ground level to prepare for winter dormancy.
Propagation of Lupinus Polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. Arcticus (S. Wats.) L. Phillips
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. arcticus (S. Wats.) L. Phillips, commonly known as Arctic lupine, belongs to the Fabaceae or legume family. This plant species is native to North America, specifically in Alaska, western Canada, and parts of the northwest United States. The Arctic lupine boasts a beautiful display of blue and purple flowers that bloom in the summer, which makes it a popular garden and landscaping plant.
Propagation Methods
There are several ways to propagate Lupinus Polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. Arcticus (S. Wats.) L. Phillips:
- Seeds: Propagation by seeds is the most common method for growing arctic lupine. It is recommended to plant the seeds in the fall, around September to November, to allow the seeds to undergo natural stratification during winter. Before sowing, the seeds must be scarified or nicked to break their hard outer coat, which helps them germinate quickly. Plant the seeds in well-draining soil, in a sunny or partially shaded area.
- Cuttings: This propagation method involves taking stem cuttings from an established Arctic lupine plant. Cut the stem about 4 inches long, remove the leaves from the bottom third, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a potting mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, and keep them moist and warm until roots develop.
- Division: This propagation method involves dividing the plant's root ball into smaller sections and replanting them. Wait until the plant is mature enough, around 3 to 4 years old, before dividing it. Dig out the plant carefully, gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, making sure each section has enough roots and leaves to survive. Replant each section into a new location with well-draining soil and good sunlight.
Overall, propagation methods for Lupinus Polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. Arcticus (S. Wats.) L. Phillips are relatively easy and straightforward. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy the Arctic lupine's beauty in your garden or landscaping project.
Disease and Pest Management for Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. arcticus
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. arcticus is a plant species that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Proper management is necessary to keep these problems under control. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that causes the roots of the plant to rot, leading to stunted growth, yellow leaves, and eventual death of the plant. It is caused by poor drainage, overwatering, and soil-borne pathogens. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Also, use sterilized soil for planting and avoid planting in contaminated soil.
2. Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It causes white powdery spots on the upper surfaces of the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and die. To manage this disease, ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and use fungicides.
Pests
1. Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. They cause distorted growth, wilting, and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs.
2. Cutworms: These are caterpillars that feed on the stems of the plant, leading to wilting and death of the plant. To manage cutworms, use insecticides and also practice crop rotation. You can also use collars around the base of the plant to protect it from the cutworms.
To promote healthy growth of Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. arcticus, monitor the plant regularly for any signs of diseases and pests. Early detection and management can prevent the spread of the problems and save the plant.
