Origin
Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus (Heller) D. Dunn is native to the western parts of North America. This plant species is mainly found in the intermountain regions, specifically in the states of Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, and Washington.
Common Names
Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus is commonly known as Dwarf Lupine, and Intermountain Lupine.
Uses
The plant has great ecological importance as it provides food to various types of animals, especially in the western part of the United States. The Dwarf Lupine species is also crucial in the initiation and development of the soil, which is excellent for other plants and flowers to grow around it. Furthermore, Lupinus pusillus is recognized for its medicinal properties, traditionally used by indigenous people for treating headaches, respiratory problems, fever, and skin infections.
General Appearance
Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus is an annual or perennial plant with a height of about 5 to 30 cm. The foliage is green, and the stem is erect, bushy, and normally not branched. The leaves are palmately compound with five to nine leaflets, and the flowers are fragrant and borne on elongated spikes. The flowers have a range of colors from shades of blue to purple, pink, and white and a characteristic shape similar to the pea flower – bilaterally symmetrical with five petals. The fruits are smooth seedpods that contain two to four seeds.
Light Requirements
Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus (Heller) D. Dunn requires full sun to partial shade for optimum growth. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in stunted growth and poor flowering. As a result, it is recommended to plant it in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to a range of temperature conditions, but it prefers cool to moderate temperatures. It is native to the mountainous regions of western North America, where it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures from subalpine to alpine conditions. As a general rule, it prefers temperatures between 50 to 75°F (10 to 24°C) during the growing season. During the winter months, it can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°F (-26°C).
Soil Requirements
Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus (Heller) D. Dunn grows well in a wide range of soils, but it prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should range from neutral to slightly acidic, between 6.0 and 7.0, and it should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It can tolerate some drought, but prolonged drought can lead to poor growth and flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus (Heller) D. Dunn is a perennial plant that is native to western North America. It requires a well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. The plant prefers full sun exposure to grow properly. It is advised to grow the plant from the seeds, as the plant may take some time to establish itself if grown from root divisions or cuttings.
Watering Needs
It is advised to water this plant regularly during its growing season and to avoid letting the soil dry out completely. The plant can survive some drought conditions, but it is best to keep the soil moist to promote healthy growth. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
This plant does not require heavy fertilization, and the addition of too much fertilizer can cause harm to the plant. It is best to add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the springtime to promote healthy growth. If in doubt, a soil test can be conducted to determine if any nutrients are lacking in the soil that needs to be addressed.
Pruning
Pruning this plant is not necessary, but pinching the stem tips in the early spring can promote bushier growth. Deadheading the spent blooms can also promote new flower growth. If there are any damaged or diseased stems or leaves, it is best to prune these parts off to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus (Heller) D. Dunn
Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus (Heller) D. Dunn can be propagated through different methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus. The seeds are obtained from the mature pods of the plant. Wait for the seed pods to dry and turn brown, and then harvest them. The seeds may be sown in either spring or fall. Prepare the seedbed by tilling the soil and removing weeds. The seeds can then be sown 1-2 cm (1/2-3/4 inch) deep and watered well. Germination typically occurs within 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the environmental conditions.
Cuttings Propagation
While seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus, the plant is also propagated from cuttings. However, this method is more challenging, and cuttings may not successfully take root.
To propagate Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus from cuttings, it is recommended to take cuttings during the plant's vegetative period, ideally in the spring or summer. Choose a healthy and robust plant and take cuttings of about 5 to 10 cm (2-4 inches) long. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a well-draining medium and keep it moist but not waterlogged. Occasionally mist the cutting to maintain humidity and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Once the cutting forms roots, it can be transplanted into a pot or the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus (Heller) D. Dunn
Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus, commonly known as Intermountain Lupine, is an evergreen perennial plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. Like other plants, Intermountain Lupine is susceptible to different kinds of diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management practices can help protect the plant from damage. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the Intermountain Lupine and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose disease is caused by a fungus that attacks plant leaves, stem, and flowers. Symptoms include brown, irregular-shaped spots on the leaves that may enlarge and cause them to turn yellow, and the plant may develop dark spots on stems and flowers. The best way to manage this disease is to remove infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Fungicide sprays may also be effective in managing anthracnose.
Root rot: This disease is caused by various soil-borne fungal pathogens. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, stunting, and the plant may eventually die. The best way to manage root rot is to ensure the plant has well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. Fungicide drenches may also be effective in managing root rot.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant sap, causing leaves to curl, yellow, and drop. The best way to manage aphids is to spray water on the plant to wash them off or introduce natural predators like ladybugs into the garden.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on plant sap and cause leaves to become yellow, dry and fall off. They thrive in hot, dry conditions. The best way to manage spider mites is to wash the plant with water and increase humidity around the plant by placing a tray of water nearby. Alternatively, insecticidal soap or neem oil may also be effective.
Cutworms: Cutworms are the larvae of various moths that feed on the plant stems and cut them off at ground level. The best way to manage cutworms is to place a physical barrier like a cardboard or plastic collar around the plant stem or apply a biological pesticide like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
By following proper disease and pest management practices, it is possible to protect Lupinus pusillus Pursh ssp. intermontanus (Heller) D. Dunn from damage and ensure healthy plant growth.
