Origin
Lupinus sparsiflorus Benth. var. mohavensis (Dziekanowski & D. Dunn) Welsh is a subspecies of Lupinus sparsiflorus, which is commonly known as the Coulterville lupine. It is a native plant to Californian regions in the United States and can be commonly found in the Mojave Desert and other parts of eastern California.
Common Names
This plant is also known by a variety of common names such as Mohave lupine, Mojave Desert lupine, Mohave valley lupine, Dune lupine, and Purple desert lupine. The various names reflect the different regions of California where the plant is predominantly found and its distinct characteristics.
Uses
Lupinus sparsiflorus Benth. var. mohavensis (Dziekanowski & D. Dunn) Welsh is a plant of great ecological importance. As with other members of the Lupinus family, it plays a role in fixing the nitrogen in the soil, which helps to improve its fertility. As a result, it is an essential plant in regenerating disturbed land areas and is often used in ecological restoration projects.
Additionally, it is a food source for wild animals such as rabbits, squirrels, and rodents. The species is also used in ornamental gardening, due to its beautiful purple flowers, which bloom in late winter to early spring.
General Appearance
Lupinus sparsiflorus Benth. var. mohavensis (Dziekanowski & D. Dunn) Welsh is a herbaceous perennial plant that typically grows to a height of one to two feet. The plant has a deep taproot, allowing it to survive in dry and arid conditions. The leaves of the plant are palmately compound and consist of five to ten leaflets. The plant produces beautiful purple-blue flowers that are arranged in an elongated cluster that is six to nine inches long. The flowers can grow up to one inch long and are mostly shaped like a pea, with a small banner, two wings, and a keel.
Light Requirements
Lupinus sparsiflorus Benth. var. mohavensis requires full sun exposure to achieve optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may affect the plant's flowering and seed production.
Temperature Requirements
The plant typically grows well in warm temperatures, usually between 60-75°F (15-24°C). However, it can tolerate extreme heat conditions, up to 85°F (29°C), and even survive in winter temperatures that drop as low as 15°F (-9°C).
Soil Requirements
Lupinus sparsiflorus Benth. var. mohavensis thrives in well-draining soils with low to moderate fertility. It prefers soils that are slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.5-7.2. Sandy and rocky soils are ideal for the plant, but it can also grow in clay soils if they are well-drained. The plant is adapted to the arid regions of the Mojave Desert, and it is drought-tolerant, so it only requires occasional watering.
Cultivation
Lupinus sparsiflorus Benth. var. mohavensis is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family that is widely cultivated in gardens and pots. It grows well in sunny or partially shaded areas. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate mild drought conditions. Ensure that the soil is rich in nutrients, and pH is between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth. Sow the seeds in spring and keep them moist until germination.
Watering Needs
Water the plant regularly during the growing season (spring and summer). Provide enough water to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged as the plant is prone to root rot. In autumn and winter, reduce watering to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root decay.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, to the soil in spring and summer. You can also add organic compost or manure to improve soil fertility. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the correct dosage and application method. Over-fertilization can cause leaf burn or stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune Lupinus sparsiflorus Benth. var. mohavensisafter flowering to encourage bushy growth and more buds. Cut back the spent flower spikes to the basal leaves using pruning shears. You may also cut back the plant once flowering has finished to promote more compact growth. Avoid pruning too much, as this may harm the plant's ability to produce new flowers and foliage.
Propagation of Lupinus sparsiflorus Benth. var. mohavensis
Lupinus sparsiflorus Benth. var. mohavensis, commonly known as Mohave lupine, can be propagated by various methods which include:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Mohave lupine. The seedlings produced through this method are identical to the parent plant. To prepare the seeds for germination, the seed coat should be softened by soaking them in hot water for 24 hours, followed by cold water for another 24 hours. After the water treatment, the seeds can be sown in trays, pots or directly in the garden during fall or early spring.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation of Mohave lupine is not as commonly used as seed propagation. However, it is still an effective and reliable way to propagate the plant. The cuttings should be taken from the stem tips which are still green and soft. To enhance rooting, the cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone powder and planted in moist soil. It is important to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged to prevent rotting of the cuttings.
Division propagation
Division propagation can be done in early spring when the plant is still dormant. The plant should be carefully dug up from the ground and then divided into several sections, each containing buds and roots. These sections can then be planted in well-draining soil with good organic matter.
Disease Management
Lupinus sparsiflorus Benth. var. mohavensis is generally a healthy plant but is susceptible to a few diseases. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause gray mold on leaves, stems, or flowers. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering and apply fungicides if necessary.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, remove infected plants and avoid overwatering. Ensure good drainage and use fungicides if necessary.
Pest Management
There are a few pests that may affect Lupinus sparsiflorus Benth. var. mohavensis. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can cause curling leaves and stunted growth. To manage them, use insecticidal soaps or oils or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling on leaves. To manage them, rinse the plant with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soaps or oils.
- Cutworms: These pests cut through plant stems at soil level, causing wilting or death. To manage them, use physical barriers like collars around plants or biological controls like nematodes.
