Overview
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius (Detling) Cox, also known as Medius Golden Lupine, is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Fabaceae. This plant is native to California and can be found in the Santa Lucia Mountains.
Appearance
The Medius Golden Lupine is a perennial herb with a height ranging from 1 to 3 feet and a spread of up to 2 feet. The leaves are palmately compound and range from 3 to 6 inches long. The flowers are showy and range in color from light to dark yellow, and are arranged in spikes up to 12 inches long. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer.
Uses
The Medius Golden Lupine is a beneficial plant that helps in nitrogen fixation and soil stabilization. It is also used in habitat restoration projects in its native California. Additionally, the plant's seeds and leaves are known to be poisonous, so it is not recommended for human consumption.
Common Names
Medius Golden Lupine is the common name for this plant. Other names include Yellow Lupine, Kellogg's Lupine, and Sello Lupine.
Light requirements
The Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius (Detling) Cox plant requires full sun exposure, that is, it thrives in bright light with a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature requirements
This plant thrives in warm weather and requires a temperature range of 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) to grow. Lupinus sellulus is not frost tolerant and should not be exposed to temperatures below 0°C (32°F).
Soil requirements
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius (Detling) Cox prefers well-drained soils that are moderately rich in nutrients. However, it also adapts neatly to poorer soils and less than ideal growing conditions. Neutral to slightly acidic soil pH's ranging from 5.5 to 7.5 are best.
Cultivation
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius (Detling) Cox requires full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It can be grown from seeds and transplants. For best results, sow or plant in the spring and fall when the temperature is mild.
Watering Needs
For healthy growth, Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius (Detling) Cox requires regular watering. Water the plants deeply once a week during the growing season. However, during the rainy season, reduce watering to avoid waterlogging and related problems.
Fertilization
To ensure the plants are healthy and strong, it's important to fertilize them regularly. Use a well-balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-10. Fertilize in early spring before new growth appears and again after the first blooming.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of maintaining Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius (Detling) Cox. Deadhead the plants regularly to encourage new blooms and prevent seed formation. Cut back the plants by half in late summer or early fall, after blooming stops, to promote bushier growth and more blooms the next season.
Propagation of Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius (Detling) Cox
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius (Detling) Cox, also known as Kellogg's Spreading Lupine, is a popular perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. Propagation of this plant can be done through different methods such as seeds, cuttings, and divisions. Here is a detailed description of each propagation method.
Propagation through Seeds
The most common propagation method for Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius is through seeds. The best time to sow the seeds is in the fall or early spring. To sow the seeds, prepare a well-drained planting bed and moisten it slightly. Scatter the seeds on the surface and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. It usually takes around 2-3 weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings have developed their third set of true leaves, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation through Cuttings
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the early summer. Take cuttings that are 3-4 inches long from the parent plant. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and water it thoroughly. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag or a clear plastic container to create a humid environment. Keep the potting mix moist until the cutting roots. Once the cutting has rooted, transplant it to its permanent location.
Propagation through Division
Propagation through division is another method that can be used for Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius. This method is best done in the spring or fall. Dig up an established plant and gently divide it into sections, making sure each section has some roots attached. Plant each section in a well-draining potting mix and water it thoroughly. Keep the potting mix moist until the plant becomes established.
Overall, Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius is a relatively easy plant to propagate through seeds, cuttings or division. By following the proper propagation methods, you can ensure a healthy and beautiful plant.
Disease Management
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius (Detling) Cox is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Fungal diseases: Leaf spots, rust, and powdery mildew
- Bacterial diseases: Crown rot and bacterial blight
To manage these diseases, it is important to prevent their occurrence by practicing good sanitation and cultural practices. Also, avoid overhead watering and wetting the foliage. Additionally, choose resistant varieties and use fungicides if necessary.
Pest Management
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. medius (Detling) Cox can also be affected by pests, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause distorted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause stippling and yellowing of the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.
- Snails and slugs: These pests can chew holes into the leaves and flowers. Use bait or traps to control them.
Regularly inspect plants for the presence of pests and use appropriate control measures if necessary.
