Origin
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. bernardianus (Abrams ex C.P. Sm.) Munz, commonly called as Bernard lupine, is a subspecies of the Lupinus polyphyllus species. This plant has an origin in the United States
Common Names
The Bernard lupine, as it is popularly known, is commonly called by other names such as St. Bernard's Lanceleaf Lupine, White-leafed Lupine and Wide-leaved Lupine.
Appearance
The Bernard lupine is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 1.5 to 3.5 feet tall, and blooms in late spring to early summer. It has several stems growing from a single base, and the leaves are palmately compound with 7-11 leaflets. The flowers are showy and grow on a tall spike-like inflorescence with colors ranging from white to shades of blue, pink, and purple. The fruit is a pod-like structure containing several seeds.
Uses
The Bernard lupine is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping due to its beautiful and showy flowers. In addition to being visually appealing, this plant also serves as a food source for various species of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.
Light Requirements
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. bernardianus (Abrams ex C.P. Sm.) Munz prefers full sun to partial shade. It grows best when exposed to at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but full shade may result in stunted growth and weaker stems.
Temperature Requirements
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. bernardianus (Abrams ex C.P. Sm.) Munz grows best in regions with cool and moist summers. The ideal temperature range for the plant is 40°F to 70°F (5°C to 20°C). High humidity levels of up to 70% are also beneficial for the growth and development of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. bernardianus (Abrams ex C.P. Sm.) Munz grows well in loose, well-draining soil. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. This species is well-adapted to nutrient-poor soils and can thrive in rocky or sandy soils that drain quickly.
Cultivation
When cultivating Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. bernardianus (Abrams ex C.P. Sm.) Munz, it is essential to choose a well-draining soil. This plant species prefers soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. You can propagate lupines through seeds or by dividing mature plants. However, it is worth considering that the plant's taproot makes transplanting challenging. When planting from seed, do so in the desired location directly.
Watering Needs
While the plant requires regular watering to become established, it doesn't like wet soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Make sure to check the soil by digging your finger into the ground. If the top inch feels dry, then it is time to water.
Fertilization
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. bernardianus (Abrams ex C.P. Sm.) Munz is a nitrogen-fixing plant, which means it doesn't require fertilizer. However, if you need to fertilize, use a balanced fertilizer during the plant's active growing season. This will help to promote healthy foliage and excellent flowering.
Pruning
It is best to prune Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. bernardianus (Abrams ex C.P. Sm.) Munz after the plant has finished flowering. Cut back the spent flower spikes or deadhead to encourage further blooms. Additionally, thinning stems leads to better air circulation and reduces the risk of powdery mildew and rust.
Propagation Methods of Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. bernardianus
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. bernardianus (Abrams ex C.P. Sm.) Munz, commonly known as Bernard lupine, is a beautiful plant that belongs to the pea family. The plant is a herbaceous perennial, which grows up to 1-2 meters tall and has a wide range of colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. Bernard lupine is mainly propagated by seed. However, it can also be propagated by vegetative methods, such as stem cuttings and root cuttings.
Propagation by Seed
Propagating Bernard lupine by seed is a simple and effective method. The best time to collect lupine seeds is in the fall when the seed pods have turned brown and are starting to open. The seeds should be removed from the pods and stored in a cool, dry place until it is time to sow them.
Before planting the seeds, it is best to scarify them. The hard outer seed coat of the plant needs to be broken down to ensure germination. Scarification can be done by rubbing the seeds with sandpaper or by soaking them in hot water for a few hours. After scarification, the seeds should be sown in a seed tray or directly in the garden bed in early spring.
Propagation by Vegetative Methods
Bernard lupine can also be propagated by vegetative methods. Stem cuttings can be taken in early summer, when the plant is in full growth. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long, and the lower leaves should be removed. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a shaded area until they form roots.
Another vegetative method for propagating Bernard lupine is root cuttings. Root cuttings should be taken from the plant in late fall or early winter. The cuttings should be 1-2 inches long and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a shaded area until they form roots.
Disease Management
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. bernardianus is prone to several diseases that can affect its growth and overall health. Some common diseases that affect this plant include:
1. Powdery Mildew: This disease is characterized by the formation of white powdery patches on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can cause stunted growth and reduced flowering. The use of fungicides such as sulfur or neem oil can help manage this disease.
2. Root Rot: This disease is caused by waterlogged soils that lead to the development of fungal pathogens. The roots become soft and discolored, which can lead to the plant's death. To manage this disease, it's essential to provide proper drainage and avoid over-watering.
3. Crown Rot: This disease affects the base of the plant, causing it to rot. It can be caused by fungal and bacterial pathogens that thrive in wet soil conditions. To manage this disease, it's essential to provide proper drainage and avoid over-watering the plant.
4. Rust: This disease is characterized by the formation of orange or yellow pustules on the leaves. It can cause leaf drop and reduced flowering. The use of fungicides such as copper-based solutions can help manage this disease.
Pest Management
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. bernardianus is also prone to several pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Some common pests that affect this plant include:
1. Aphids: These are small insects that suck the sap from the plant's tender parts, leading to stunted growth and deformation. To manage this pest, it's essential to use insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
2. Snails and Slugs: These pests can cause severe damage to the plant's foliage by feeding on leaves, stems, and flowers. The use of copper barriers or bait traps can help manage these pests.
3. Thrips: These are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant's tissues, leading to discoloration and deformation of leaves. The use of insecticidal soaps and neem oil can help manage this pest.
4. Spider Mites: These are pests that can cause severe damage to the plant's foliage by sucking the sap from leaves and stems. They can also cause discoloration and leaf drop. The use of insecticidal soaps and neem oil can help manage this pest.
Overall, it is essential to maintain good plant hygiene, provide proper watering and drainage, and monitor the plants regularly to prevent and manage pests and diseases.
