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Lupinus

Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Mixed (30)ct Flat

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Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Yellow (30)ct Flat

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Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Red (30)ct Flat

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Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Pink Bicolor (30)ct Flat

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Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Blue Bicolor (30)ct Flat

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Lupinus

Lupinus Popsicle Series Mixed (30)ct Flat

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Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Mixed (30)ct Flat

Lupinus polyphyllus MINI GALLERY™ Series - Mixed (30)ct FlatMINI GALLERY™ SeriesCommon Name: Lupine A new mix option to join the individual colors of the existing series. MINI...

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Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Yellow (30)ct Flat

Lupinus polyphyllus MINI GALLERY™ Series - Yellow (30)ct FlatMINI GALLERY™ SeriesCommon Name: Lupine This series of Lupine from HM Clause in France is touted as being more compact, more...

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Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Red (30)ct Flat

Lupinus polyphyllus MINI GALLERY™ Series - Red (30)ct FlatMINI GALLERY™ SeriesCommon Name: Lupine This series of Lupine from HM Clause in France is touted as being more compact, more...

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Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Pink Bicolor (30)ct Flat

This series of Lupine from HM Clause in France is touted as being more compact, more floriferous, and earlier blooming than the Gallery Series. In height, these are shorter than the popular Popsicle...

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Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Blue Bicolor (30)ct Flat

Lupinus polyphyllus MINI GALLERY™ Series - Blue Bicolor (30)ct FlatMINI GALLERY™ SeriesCommon Name: Lupine This series of Lupine from HM Clause in France is touted as being more compact,...

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Lupinus

Lupinus Popsicle Series Mixed (30)ct Flat

Lupinus Popsicle Series - Mixed (30)ct FlatPopsicle SeriesCommon Name: Lupine Popsicle Series - Mixed is a mixed seed strain of lupines that includes a wide range of blue, purple, yellow, red, pink,...

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What are the characteristics of Lupinus?

Lupinus, commonly known as lupine, is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family Fabaceae. There are over 300 species of lupines, most of which are native to North and South America, with a concentration of diversity in the western United States.

Here are some of the characteristics of Lupinus:

Habit: Most lupines are herbaceous perennials, but some are annuals, and a few are shrubs or even trees. The tallest lupine species, Lupinus jaimehintonianus, can grow up to 8 meters (26 feet) tall!
Size: Herbaceous lupines typically range from 0.3 to 1.5 meters (1 to 5 feet) tall.
Leaves: Lupine leaves are soft green to gray-green and may be coated in silvery hairs. The leaf blades are usually palmately divided into 5 to 28 leaflets, though some species have only a single leaflet.
Flowers: Lupine flowers are produced in dense or open whorls on an erect spike. The flowers are pea-like, with an upper standard petal (banner), two lateral wing petals, and two lower petals fused into a keel. Lupine flowers come in a wide variety of colors, including blue, purple, pink, white, yellow, and orange.
Fruit: The lupine fruit is a pod that contains several seeds. Lupine seeds are toxic to humans and animals if ingested raw.

Lupines are popular ornamental plants and are also nitrogen-fixing legumes, which means that they can help to improve soil fertility. However, it is important to note that all parts of the lupine plant are poisonous if ingested raw.

How do I plant Lupinus?

There are two main ways to plant Lupinus perennials: by seed or by transplanting containerized plants. Here's a breakdown for each method:

Planting Lupinus from Seed:

Timing: Lupine seeds benefit from scarification (scratching the seed coat) to improve germination. You can do this by gently rubbing the seeds with sandpaper. Aim to plant them in early spring or late fall depending on your climate.
Location: Select a sunny location with well-draining soil. Lupines won't tolerate soggy conditions and prefer slightly acidic soil.
Planting: Loosen the soil to a depth of 1 to 1.5 feet to accommodate the long taproot. You can amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage. Sow the seeds shallowly, about ¼ inch deep, and keep them evenly moist until germination which can take 14-30 days.
Note: Lupines have long taproots and don't transplant well, so it's best to sow them directly where you want them to grow.

Planting Lupinus from Containers:

Timing: Spring is the ideal time to plant containerized lupines outdoors.
Location: Similar to planting from seed, choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Planting: Dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the container the lupine came in. Loosen the soil in the planting hole to encourage root growth. Carefully remove the plant from the pot, gently loosen the roots if they seem crowded, and place it in the hole. Backfill with soil, tamp lightly, and water well.

General Care Tips:

Water regularly, especially during the first growing season, but avoid waterlogged soil.
Lupines generally don't require fertilizer, especially if your soil is fertile.
Deadheading spent flowers can encourage additional blooms throughout the season.
In colder climates, you can mulch around the base of the plant in fall to protect the roots over winter.

By following these tips, you can successfully plant and grow beautiful Lupinus perennials in your garden.

What are varieties of Lupinus?

There are over 300 species of lupines but some popular varieties for gardeners include:

Russell Lupines (Lupinus x polyphyllus): This is a hybrid variety known for its tall spikes of colorful flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, white, yellow, and orange. They can grow up to 4 feet tall and bloom in late spring to early summer.
Gallery Series Lupines: This is a group of low-growing lupines, typically reaching only about 2 feet tall. They come in a wide range of colors, including yellow, orange, and red, and bloom in the first year from seed.
Texas Bluebonnets (Lupinus texensis): This is the official state flower of Texas and is a popular wildflower. It has blue flowers with white markings and blooms in the spring.
Desert Sun Lupine (Lupinus aridus): This is a low-growing lupine that is native to the southwestern United States. It has yellow flowers with orange and red markings and is drought-tolerant.
Silver Sands Lupine (Lupinus argenteus): This is a beautiful lupine with silvery-white foliage and blue flowers. It is native to the coastal areas of California and Oregon.

These are just a few of the many varieties of lupines available. With so many different colors, sizes, and bloom times to choose from, there is sure to be a lupine variety that is perfect for your garden.

How Do I Care For a Lupinus?

Here's a breakdown of how to care for your Lupinus:

Sun and Soil:

Sun: Lupines prefer full sun, at least 6 hours a day. They may tolerate some light shade, but flowering will be reduced.
Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial. Loosen the soil to about 12-18 inches deep to accommodate their long taproots. They prefer slightly acidic soil (pH between 6.0 and 6.8). If your soil is alkaline, you can add sulfur to lower the pH.

Watering and Feeding:

Watering: Water regularly, especially during the first growing season and during hot, dry spells. However, avoid waterlogged soil. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Feeding: Lupines generally don't require fertilizer, particularly if your soil is fertile. In fact, too much fertilizer can encourage foliage growth at the expense of blooms.

Other Care Tips:

Deadheading: Deadheading spent flowers will encourage additional blooms throughout the season. Simply pinch off the flower stalk just below the faded bloom.
Staking (optional): Taller varieties may benefit from staking, especially in windy locations. Use a grow-through grid stake to avoid damaging the stems.
Winter Care: In colder climates (USDA zones 3-7), apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant in fall to protect the roots over winter. You can use shredded leaves, bark, or compost.
Pests and Diseases: Lupines are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to aphids, slugs, and powdery mildew. You can control aphids with insecticidal soap and slugs with organic slug bait. Powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide, but ensure it's suitable for lupines.

By following these simple care tips, you can keep your Lupinus plants happy and thriving for many seasons to come.

Does Lupinus attract pollinators?

Yes, Lupinus does attract pollinators, although there's a caveat. Here's a breakdown:

Attracts a variety of pollinators: Lupines attract a variety of pollinators, including bumblebees, mason bees, leafcutter bees, carpenter bees, and even hummingbirds depending on the species.
Food source, not nectar: Interestingly, lupine flowers typically don't produce nectar [sites.tufts.edu/pollinators/2019/06/for-the-love-of-wild-lupine/]. Instead, they attract pollinators with pollen as the reward.

So, while lupines are a magnet for pollinators, they specifically lure them in with a protein-rich pollen meal.

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Lupinus?

Yes, while lupines are generally low-maintenance and resistant to many pests and diseases, there are a few common ones to watch out for:

Pests:

Aphids: These tiny, sap-sucking insects can infest the stems and leaves of your lupines. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and honeydew buildup, which can attract sooty mold. Look for signs of aphid presence like sticky leaves or curled foliage.
Slugs: These slimy creatures love to munch on lupine leaves, leaving ragged holes and slimy trails.

Diseases:

Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It thrives in cool, humid conditions and can stunt plant growth.
Fungal blights: These include diseases like anthracnose, botrytis, and sclerotinia stem rot. They can cause brown spots, wilting, and stem cankers.

Here are some tips for managing these pests and diseases:

Prevention is key: Practice good garden hygiene by removing plant debris and fallen leaves around your lupines. This helps to reduce overwintering sites for pests and diseases.
Encourage beneficial insects: Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids. Planting companion flowers that attract these beneficial insects can help control aphid populations.
Watering practices: Avoid overwatering, as this can create favorable conditions for fungal diseases. Water at the base of the plant and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Organic controls: For mild infestations of aphids or slugs, you can try organic methods like insecticidal soap or neem oil spray for aphids and organic slug bait for slugs.
Fungicides: If fungal diseases become severe, you may need to apply a fungicide specifically labeled for use on lupines. Be sure to follow the application instructions carefully.

By being aware of these potential problems and taking preventative measures, you can help keep your lupines healthy and vibrant.

Can I Use Lupinus in Floral Arrangements?

Yes, Lupinus can be used in floral arrangements, but with a couple of considerations:

Short vase life: Lupines are known to have a relatively short vase life, typically around 3-7 days. Here are some tips to extend their vase life:
- Cut the stems when the lower 1-2 whorls of flowers are open.
- Use a sharp knife to make a diagonal cut on the stem end.
- Immediately place the stems in a clean vase filled with cool water.
- Add a floral preservative to the water according to the package directions.
- Recut the stems and replace the water every 1-2 days.
Toxicity: Remember that all parts of the lupine plant are toxic if ingested, so take care when handling them and keep them out of reach of children and pets.

Here are some things to consider when using Lupinus in floral arrangements:

Lupine varieties: There are many varieties of lupines available, each with different flower colors, sizes, and stem lengths. Choose varieties that suit your arrangement's style and size.
Lupine's visual impact: Lupines have a bold and visually striking presence due to their tall spikes of flowers. They can be used as a focal point in an arrangement or to add height and vertical interest.
Complementary flowers: Lupines pair well with a variety of flowers, including roses, lilies, delphiniums, daisies, and greenery. Consider the color palette and overall style of your arrangement when choosing companion flowers.

Overall, lupines can be a beautiful addition to floral arrangements, but keep in mind their short vase life and potential toxicity. With proper care and planning, you can enjoy these stunning flowers in your arrangements for a few days.

Is Lupinus Invasive?

The invasiveness of Lupinus depends on the specific species and your location. Here's a breakdown:

Native vs. Introduced: Some lupine species are native to certain regions, while others are introduced. For instance, Russell lupine (Lupinus x polyphyllus) is native to western North America, but it can be invasive in other parts of the world like Europe.
Disruptive Potential: Invasive lupines can disrupt the ecological balance by outcompeting native plants for resources like light, water, and nutrients. They can also alter soil conditions and hinder the growth of native wildflowers.
Locational Considerations: Before planting lupines, it's important to determine if the specific species is invasive in your area. Here are some resources to help you check:
- Your local gardening extension service or botanical garden
- Native plant societies
- Online invasive plant databases for your region

By checking beforehand, you can avoid accidentally introducing an invasive species to your local ecosystem.

Here are some alternatives to consider if you're concerned about invasiveness:

Native Lupine Species: If you live in an area where lupines are native, planting native species is a great option. They'll be well-adapted to your local environment and won't pose a threat to native ecosystems.
Non-invasive Cultivars: Some cultivated varieties of lupines have been bred to be less invasive. Look for cultivars specifically designated as non-invasive for your region.

With a little research, you can enjoy the beauty of lupines in your garden while also being mindful of their potential impact on the environment.

When Is The Best Time To propagate Lupinus?

The best time to propagate Lupinus depends on the method you choose:

Seeds: Early spring or late fall is the ideal time to sow lupine seeds depending on your climate. In colder climates (fall with freezing temperatures), late fall sowing allows the seeds to go through a cold period (stratification) which can improve germination. In warmer climates (without freezing temperatures), early spring sowing is best.
Basal Cuttings: Spring is the best time to take basal cuttings from lupines. Look for healthy new growth with at least two sets of leaves for successful propagation.
Division: Division is not the most recommended method for lupines as they have a taproot that can be disturbed during the process. However, if you do choose to divide, early spring is again the best time.

Here's a quick summary table:

Propagation Method	Best Timing
Seeds (colder climates)	Late Fall
Seeds (warmer climates)	Early Spring
Basal Cuttings	Spring
Division (not recommended)	Early Spring

What are the benefits of planting Lupinus?

Lupinus offers a variety of benefits for your garden beyond their beautiful flowers. Here's a breakdown of some key advantages:

Visual Appeal: Lupines boast tall, showy flower spikes that come in a wide range of colors, including blue, purple, pink, white, yellow, and orange. They can be a real focal point in your garden, adding pops of color and vertical interest.
Pollinator Magnet: Lupines attract a variety of pollinators like bumblebees, mason bees, leafcutter bees, carpenter bees, and even hummingbirds (depending on the species). By attracting these beneficial insects, lupines can help improve pollination in your garden, leading to better fruit set on other plants.
Soil Improvement: Lupines, being legumes, have the unique ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. This means they take nitrogen from the air and convert it into a usable form that other plants can absorb. This can help improve the overall fertility and health of your soil.
Drought Tolerance: Established lupines with their deep taproots are generally quite drought tolerant once their root system is established. This can be a benefit in areas with hot, dry summers.
Deer Resistance: Deer tend to find lupines unpalatable due to the presence of alkaloids. This makes them a good choice for gardens where deer browsing can be a problem.

Here are some additional things to consider:

Low Maintenance: Lupines are generally low-maintenance plants once established. They don't require frequent feeding and are fairly resistant to pests and diseases.
Short Lifespan: While some lupine varieties can live for several years, others are short-lived perennials. However, many lupines readily self-sow, ensuring a continuous presence in your garden.

Overall, planting lupines offers a multitude of benefits for your garden, from enhancing its beauty and attracting pollinators to improving soil health and providing some resistance to deer.

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Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Mixed (30)ct Flat

Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Yellow (30)ct Flat

Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Red (30)ct Flat

Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Pink Bicolor (30)ct Flat

Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Blue Bicolor (30)ct Flat

Lupinus

Lupinus Popsicle Series Mixed (30)ct Flat

Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Mixed (30)ct Flat

Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Yellow (30)ct Flat

Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Red (30)ct Flat

Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Pink Bicolor (30)ct Flat

Lupinus

Lupinus p. MINI GALLERY Series - Blue Bicolor (30)ct Flat

Lupinus

Lupinus Popsicle Series Mixed (30)ct Flat

What are the characteristics of Lupinus?

How do I plant Lupinus?

What are varieties of Lupinus?

How Do I Care For a Lupinus?

Does Lupinus attract pollinators?

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Lupinus?

Can I Use Lupinus in Floral Arrangements?

Is Lupinus Invasive?

When Is The Best Time To propagate Lupinus?

What are the benefits of planting Lupinus?