Overview
Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus is a flowering plant that is native to North America, specifically to California and Oregon. It belongs to the family Fabaceae, also known as the legume family. This plant has various uses and is known for its striking appearance.
General Appearance
The Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus plant grows up to a height of three feet and has a spread of two feet. It has palmate leaves that are alternately arranged, green in color and are sparsely hairy. The plant produces flowers that are dark blue-purple in color, but sometimes they can also be pink or white. These flowers are bi-colored, with a white spot in the center and a yellow keel. The flowers grow in elongated spikes and bloom in the late spring and early summer.
Common Names
Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus is commonly known as Bush lupine, Coastal bush lupine, Oregon bush lupine, and Lupinus chamissonis.
Uses
The Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus plant has various uses. It is used for ornamental purposes, as it adds a beautiful touch to gardens and landscapes. Additionally, it attracts pollinators like bees, making it ideal for areas where pollination is necessary. Moreover, the plant has medicinal properties, and its seeds have been used to make poultices, teas, and tonics. The plant is also used in reforestation and erosion control projects since it helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
Light Requirements
Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus typically grows best in full sun to partial shade conditions. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to reach its full potential. If grown in too much shade, the plant will become leggy and may not produce flowers or pods.
Temperature Requirements
Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus thrives in cooler temperatures and is adapted to grow in high elevation regions. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. It does not tolerate extreme heat and may suffer if grown in excessively warm environments.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils that are slightly acidic with a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5. It does best in fertile soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate dry or sandy soils, but performs better in soils that have a higher moisture content. It does not grow well in heavy, clay soils that retain too much moisture and are prone to waterlogging.
Cultivation
Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus, commonly known as bush lupine, is a hardy perennial plant that can be easily cultivated in well-draining soil with full sun exposure. It requires a moderate amount of water, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The plant is best suited for USDA zones 8-10 and can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
While planting Lupinus subvexus, the soil should be evenly moist. Once the plant establishes roots, it requires moderate watering, and the soil should be allowed to dry slightly between watering sessions. The plant can tolerate drought conditions but needs regular watering during the growing season to boost optimal growth and flowering. It is essential to avoid excessive watering as it can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilization is an essential aspect for the growth and development of Lupinus subvexus. The plant requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer, preferably one with higher phosphorus and potassium during the growing season. The fertilizer can be applied every four to six weeks, starting from early spring. It is recommended to avoid over-fertilization as it can cause rapid growth and less flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the bush lupine's shape and encourage optimal flowering. The plant can be pruned once in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. The pruning process includes cutting off any diseased or damaged branches and shaping the plant to promote new growth. Pinching off the plant tips helps to control growth and encourage bushier growth. Deadheading the spent flowers is also essential as it helps to promote new flowering and maintains the plant's aesthetic appeal.
Propagation of Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus
Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus. The seeds of the plant should be collected when the seed pods are dry and brown. The collected seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until they are ready for sowing.
Before sowing the seeds, they should be soaked in water for 24 hours. This will soften the seed coat and enhance germination. The seeds should then be sowed in trays or pots filled with a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist but not waterlogged.
The seeds will take around two weeks to germinate. Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they can be transplanted into bigger pots or directly into the ground.
Vegetative Propagation
Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings or division.
Stem cuttings can be taken from the plant during the growing season. The cuttings should be around 10cm in length and should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and warm until roots develop.
The plant can also be propagated through division. This method involves lifting the plant and dividing the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have a few shoots and a healthy root system. The divided sections can then be planted in a well-draining soil mix, and kept moist until they establish.
Disease management
Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus, or silky lupine, is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and yield. The common diseases that might affect this plant include root rot, powdery mildew, and anthracnose.
To prevent root rot, it is essential to have well-drained soil. If the soil retains moisture, it can lead to the growth of fungi that cause root rot. Another way to prevent this disease is to avoid over-watering. In case root rot has already occurred, it is recommended to remove the infected plants and improve the soil drainage.
Powdery mildew is caused by a fungus that forms a white powdery layer on plant leaves and stems. It can slow down the plant's growth and reduce its yield. To manage powdery mildew, it is advisable to prune the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Additionally, applying fungicides can control powdery mildew.
Anthracnose is another fungal disease that affects the growth of lupines. It causes brownish lesions on leaves, stems, and pods. To manage anthracnose, it is essential to maintain proper plant spacing and remove infected plant parts. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of this disease.
Pest management
Aside from diseases, pests can also pose a threat to the growth of Lupinus subvexus C.P. Sm. var. subvexus. The common pests that might harm this plant include aphids, spider mites, and snails/slugs.
Aphids can reduce the plant's vigor and stunt its growth. To control this pest, introducing predators like ladybugs or lacewings can be helpful. Additionally, spraying insecticidal soap can also kill aphids without harming the plant.
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. They can quickly reproduce and cause significant damage. To manage spider mites, spraying a mixture of water and soap can be effective, as well as introducing predatory mites or insects.
Snails and slugs feed on plant leaves and can cause significant damage if left uncontrolled. To manage these pests, it is advisable to remove any hiding places around the plant and apply copper barriers or eggshells to prevent them from getting near the plant. Traps or baits can also be used to manage these pests effectively.
