Overview
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus is a species of lupine that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is a wildflower native to North America, found in the Great Basin and the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges in California, Nevada and Oregon. This plant is known for its striking appearance, making it a favorite among gardeners and wildflower enthusiasts.
Common Names
The common names for this plant may vary depending on the region. Some of the commonly used names include Kellogg's spicate lupine, spicate lupine, and desert lupine.
Appearance
The lupine plant grows as a perennial herb and reaches a height of 30–60 cm. The inflorescence is a spikelike raceme, with showy flowers forming pea-like pods. The flowers are usually blue or purple, although they can also be pink, white or even bi-colored. The leaves are palmately compound, with a central stem and 5-10 leaflets.
Uses
The Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus plant serves several purposes, both ornamental and medicinal. The plant is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens, for its attractive flowers and foliage. It is also used in the restoration of disturbed habitats and to add nitrogen to soil. In traditional medicine, lupine has been used to treat a variety of ailments including tumors, skin rashes, and arthritis. The plant is also used to enhance the reproductive system and boost libido.
Overall, Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus is a beautiful plant with multiple benefits, making it a valuable addition to gardens and natural habitats.Light Requirements
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus thrives in full sun and requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It does not tolerate shade and may suffer stunted growth or even die if grown in areas with inadequate light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is a native of California and prefers warm weather. It does not tolerate frost or extreme cold conditions and grows optimally in temperature ranges between 70 – 80°F.
Soil Requirements
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH of 6.5 to 7.0. It can tolerate a range of soil textures but grows best in soils that are loamy and rich in organic matter. The plant does not tolerate soil that is too compact, poorly drained, or too rich in nitrogen, which may lead to the production of excess foliage at the expense of flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus, commonly known as Kellogg's dwarf lupine, requires a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant prefers full sun and can tolerate partial shade. It is recommended to plant the seeds of Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus directly in the ground after the last frost has passed. The plant can also be propagated through cuttings or division.
Watering Needs
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, ensuring the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid watering late in the day to reduce the risk of fungal growth. During the winter months, reduce the frequency of watering and only water when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. The plant also benefits from the application of a phosphorus-rich fertilizer when planting. However, avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flower production.
Pruning
Regular pruning of Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus is not necessary, but removing spent flowers can encourage the plant to produce more blooms. In the fall, cut back the stems to the ground to promote new growth in the spring. When pruning, ensure to use clean and sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus, commonly known as Kellogg's dwarf lupine, can be propagated through different methods such as seed, cuttings, and division.
Propagation from Seed
Propagation from seed is the most common and easiest method of propagating Kellogg's dwarf lupine. Seeds can be obtained from mature plants or purchased from nurseries or seed catalogs. It is best to plant the seeds in fall or early spring. Sow the seeds in a seedling tray filled with well-draining soil, keeping the soil moist but not wet. Germination should occur in two to three weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted to individual pots or in the ground.
Propagation from Cuttings
Propagation from cuttings is another method of propagating Kellogg's dwarf lupine, but it is not commonly used due to the plant's taproots. Softwood cuttings can be taken from the plant in the spring, but it is important to keep the soil moist so as to avoid the cutting from drying out quickly. The cuttings should be placed in a well-draining soil and covered with plastic or a cloche to maintain high humidity levels. Roots should form within a few weeks, and once the cutting is well established, it can be planted in individual pots or in the ground.
Propagation from Division
Propagation from division is a more complicated method of propagating Kellogg's dwarf lupine due to the plant's deep taproots and slow growth. However, when done correctly, it can be a successful way to propagate the plant. It is best to divide the plant in early spring when it is just starting to emerge from dormancy. Gently dig up the plant, and using a sharp spade or knife, divide the plant into sections with healthy roots and growth. Replant the divisions, and water well.
Disease and Pest Management of Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus, commonly known as Kellogg's Mariposa Lily, face a range of pests and diseases that can hinder their growth and well-being. As a proactive measure, gardeners and plant enthusiasts must maintain a clean and healthy environment to reduce the risk of diseases and pests. Here are the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Fusarium wilt: This soil-borne fungal pathogen can cause the leaves of Kellogg's Mariposa Lily to yellow and wilt. The disease can spread quickly and eventually lead to the plant's death. To combat the disease:
- Remove and destroy all infected plants
- Disinfect all gardening equipment to avoid the spread of the fungus
- Avoid overwatering the plants or planting them too close to one another, as this can encourage the fungus's growth.
2. Leaf and stem blight: This disease is caused by a fungus that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. It is characterized by brown or black spots on the leaves, which can cause them to fall off prematurely. To control and manage the disease:
- Remove all infected plant parts thoroughly and destroy them
- Apply fungicides to the plant every 7 to 10 days until the disease clears up
Pests
1. Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant, leading to wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage aphids:
- Rinse the infested plants with a forceful spray of water to remove the aphids
- Introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to the area
- Use insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or insecticides as a last resort
2. Spider Mites: These tiny mites cause yellowing, stippling, and mottling on leaves, eventually leading to defoliation. To manage spider mites:
- Spray the plant with a forceful stream of water to dislodge the mites
- Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as excessive nitrogen can encourage spider mites to infest
- Use insecticides like neem oil or insecticidal soap to control spider mites
By implementing the above measures, gardeners and plant enthusiasts can effectively manage pests and diseases on Lupinus sellulus Kellogg ssp. sellulus var. sellulus, ensuring their plants remain healthy and productive all year round.
