Origin
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. superbus (Heller) Munz, commonly known as bigleaf lupine, is a flowering plant that is native to western North America. It is commonly found in wet meadows, on riverbanks, and in other areas with moist soil.
Common Names
In addition to bigleaf lupine, Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. superbus is also known by other common names, including large-leaved lupine, skunk lupine, and blue-pod lupine.
Uses
Bigleaf lupine has a variety of uses. For example, it is often planted as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its showy flowers. The plant is also sometimes used for erosion control. Additionally, some indigenous communities use bigleaf lupine for medicinal purposes, such as for treating headaches, colds, and inflammation.
General Appearance
Bigleaf lupine is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to six feet in height. The plant has a central stem with large, palmately compound leaves that are divided into numerous leaflets. The plant produces showy spikes of flowers that can be pink, purple, blue, or white in color, and that bloom from May to July. After the flowers are pollinated, the plant produces seed pods that are covered in soft hairs and contain numerous seeds.
Light Requirements
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. superbus (Heller) Munz thrives in full to partial sunlight exposure. In areas with intense and prolonged sunlight, it is recommended to provide shade for the plant, especially during midday hours. In inadequate light conditions, the plant will be leggy and have fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. superbus (Heller) Munz is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can tolerate cold weather and has a high frost tolerance, making it an appropriate choice in colder climates. However, it cannot handle exceptionally hot temperatures, and the flowers can start to wither prematurely.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers loose, well-drained soil that is a bit on the acidic side. Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. superbus (Heller) Munz can thrive in soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. It is recommended to add organic matter to the soil, such as compost and mulch to promote healthy growth and bloom. The plant also requires consistent soil moisture, but it should not be waterlogged, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. superbus (Heller) Munz, commonly known as Bigleaf Lupine, is a perennial plant that requires some initial preparation before planting. Choose a location that receives partial sun and has well-draining soil. Till the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and mix in organics like aged manure or compost.
Sow the seeds in early spring and cover them with about 1/4 inch of soil. Water the area gently using a sprayer and cover with a thin layer of mulch. Keep the area consistently moist until the seedlings emerge, which usually takes around 15-20 days.
Watering Needs
The Bigleaf Lupine is a moisture-loving plant that requires consistent watering. The soil should remain moist but not waterlogged, especially during growth periods. Water the plant regularly, preferably in the early morning or mid-evening to prevent evaporation loss from the heat of the sun.
Fertilization
Fertilizing the plant serves to improve growth, production, and overall health. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, at a rate of 1 pound per 100 square feet two weeks after planting. Repeat the process yearly in early spring, just before the plant flowers.
Pruning
Pruning helps to shape the plant, encourage bushy growth, and prevent disease. Pinch off the tips of the young plant once it's about 4 inches tall to encourage branching. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote blooming throughout the season. Cut back the plant to ground level during the fall after the leaves have died back to help with air circulation and prevent disease in the coming season.
Propagation Methods of Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. superbus (Heller) Munz
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. superbus (Heller) Munz, also known as the "superb lupine," is a flowering perennial plant that can be propagated in several different ways.
Seed Propagation
One of the most common methods of propagating Lupinus polyphyllus ssp. superbus is through seed propagation. The seeds of this plant are typically sown in the fall or early spring, in a well-draining soil mix. It is important to scarify the seed coat to allow for better germination. Scarification can be achieved through various methods such as scratching or filing the seed coat or soaking it in hot water for a few seconds. Once planted, the seeds should be watered regularly until they establish.
Division
Another way to propagate Lupinus polyphyllus ssp. superbus is through division. This method involves separating the root mass of an established plant into several smaller sections. This is typically done in the fall or early spring. The sections should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and watered regularly until they establish.
Cuttings
Lupinus polyphyllus ssp. superbus can also be propagated through softwood cuttings taken from new growth in the spring. These cuttings should be taken early in the morning when the plant is most hydrated. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a soil mix. It is important to keep the soil moist and the cutting in a well-lit area until it establishes.
Overall, Lupinus polyphyllus ssp. superbus can be propagated through seed, division, or cuttings. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, but all can result in a successful propagation of this beautiful plant.
Disease management
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. superbus (Heller) Munz, commonly known as the large-leaved lupine, is susceptible to several types of diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Anthracnose: This disease causes lesions on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the lupine plant. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and dispose of infected plant debris. Additionally, applying fungicides can help prevent the spread of anthracnose.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by a soil-borne fungus and can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To manage root rot, it is important to improve drainage in the soil, avoid overwatering the plant, and remove infected plant debris.
- Bacterial blight: This disease causes water-soaked lesions on the foliage and stems of the lupine plant. To manage bacterial blight, it is important to remove infected plant debris and avoid overhead irrigation. Additionally, applying copper-based fungicides can help prevent the spread of this disease.
Pest management
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ssp. superbus (Heller) Munz is also susceptible to several types of pests. The most common pests that affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the lupine plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, it is important to introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs, and to spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These pests feed on the underside of the lupine leaves and can cause yellowing and webbing. To manage spider mites, it is important to spray the plant with a strong stream of water and to introduce natural predators, such as predatory mites.
- Slugs and snails: These pests feed on the foliage and can cause large holes in the leaves. To manage slugs and snails, it is important to remove any hiding places, such as rocks or debris, and to apply slug bait around the base of the plant.
