Origin
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox, commonly known as the hill lupine, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to California and can be found in a few other western states in the United States.
Common Names
The hill lupine is known by several common names, including Kellogg's hill lupine, Kellogg's lupine, and streambank lupine.
Uses
The plant has been used for soil erosion control, as an ornamental plant, and as a source of livestock forage. Additionally, some Native American tribes have used it to treat different ailments.
General Appearance
The hill lupine typically grows up to 2 feet tall and can spread up to 1 foot wide. It has blue-purple flowers that bloom from April to June and grows in well-drained soils, including rocky and sandy soils. The leaflets are green and range from 5 to 9 in number, depending on the subspecies. The plant also has a taproot that can penetrate the soil up to 12 feet deep.
Light Requirements:
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox typically grows in full sun or partial shade. It requires a minimum of six hours of direct or indirect sunlight per day to thrive. If the plant receives less than six hours of sunlight, it may not flower as abundantly as it does in full sun.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant is native to coastal California and Baja California and prefers a mild temperate climate with cool, damp winters and dry summers. The ideal temperature range for Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox is between 60-80°F (15-27°C) during the day and 40-60°F (4-15°C) at night.
Soil Requirements:
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox grows best in well-drained, sandy or loamy soil. It prefers soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. The plant does well in sandy soils with low nutrient content and good drainage. It is adapted to serpentine and clay soils as well. Soil should not be too rich or clayey.
Cultivation of Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox, commonly known as Kellogg's Spurred Lupine, is a species of wildflowers native to California. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of conditions, making it easy to grow by gardeners of all levels of expertise.
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can grow up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall and 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) wide, so make sure to provide enough space between the plants when planting.
Watering needs of Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox requires moderate watering. It can tolerate short periods of drought, but make sure to water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot and other fungal diseases, so be mindful of the watering schedule.
Fertilization of Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox does not require heavy fertilization. However, adding organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to the soil can improve the plant's growth. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring using a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10.
Pruning of Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox
Pruning is not necessary for Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox. However, removing spent blooms can encourage the plant to produce more flowers. Deadheading also prevents the plant from self-seeding and spreading uncontrollably in your garden. Use clean pruning shears or scissors to remove the spent blooms at the base of the stem.
Propagation Methods of Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox
Lupinus sellulus Kellogg var. ursinus (Eastw.) Cox, also known as Golden Lupine, is a flowering plant native to California. It is commonly found in meadows, valley grasslands, and oak savannas. Propagating this plant can be done through several methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the easiest and the most common method of propagating Golden Lupine. The optimal time to sow the seeds is from late fall to early spring. For best results, the seeds can be scarified or soaked in warm water overnight prior to sowing. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1/4 inch in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 10 to 14 days. Once the seedlings are at least 4 inches tall, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another method of propagating Golden Lupine but may take a little bit of expertise to achieve success. The cuttings should be taken from the new growth of the plant, and only the healthiest and strongest cuttings should be chosen. The cuttings should be approximately 4 to 6 inches long and should be taken in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and then plant them in moist, well-draining soil. Cover the cuttings with a plastic bag or dome to maintain humidity, and keep them in a place with indirect sunlight.
Propagation through Division
Propagation through division is a method that can be used for mature plants that are two or more years old. In early spring when the plant starts to grow, it can be divided into smaller sections. The plant should be carefully dug up and the roots should be separated into sections, ensuring that each section has at least one healthy stem. Replant each section in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Disease and Pest Management for Lupinus Sellulus Kellogg var. Ursinus (Eastw.) Cox
Like many plant species, Lupinus Sellulus Kellogg var. Ursinus (Eastw.) Cox is susceptible to diseases and pests that can damage or kill the plant. Below are some common diseases and pests that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases:
Fungal Diseases: Lupinus Sellulus Kellogg var. Ursinus (Eastw.) Cox can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust, powdery mildew, and root rot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and keep the soil well-drained. If signs of disease appear, remove and dispose of the affected areas immediately to prevent further spread. Fungal diseases can be treated with fungicides, but be sure to follow label instructions carefully.
Bacterial Diseases: The plant may also be affected by bacterial diseases such as bacterial wilt and crown gall. These diseases are difficult to manage once they occur, so prevention is key. Avoid mechanical injuries or wounding to the plant, and practice good sanitation. Affected plants should be removed and destroyed immediately.
Pests:
Aphids: Aphids can be a problem for Lupinus Sellulus Kellogg var. Ursinus (Eastw.) Cox. These small insects feed on the plant's sap, causing leaves to curl and become distorted. To manage aphids, wash them off the plant with a strong spray of water. Insecticidal soaps are also effective, but again, be sure to follow label instructions carefully.
Cutworms: Cutworms are common pests that can cut off seedlings at the base. To manage cutworms, place collars made of cardboard or newspaper around the base of the plants. Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) is also an effective organic control for cutworms.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that suck sap from leaves, causing them to have a stippled appearance. To manage spider mites, keep the plant well-watered and increase humidity around the plant. Insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and predatory mites are also effective controls for spider mites.
By taking steps to prevent and manage diseases and pests, you can help keep your Lupinus Sellulus Kellogg var. Ursinus (Eastw.) Cox plants healthy and productive.
