Lupine Flower Facts That You Should Definitely Know About
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Lupine is a flower that is also known as lupin and bluebonnet.
It is in the genus of flowering plants, specifically in the legume family Fabaceae, the pea family, which includes more than 199 species. They are cultivated as ornamental plants for their flowers and also as a food source.
Though there exists doubt regarding the origin of the name, Collins Dictionary asserts that the word came from the Latin word 'lupīnus', which means 'wolfish'. The word is estimated to be from the 14th century.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lupines, despite their beauty, are, unfortunately, subject to many different types of fungal diseases. Peronospora, powdery mildew, basal, and root rot.
are a few fungal diseases that affect these plants. Fungal ailments typically show up on the leaves and take up the form of spots, bumps, or powdery film.
Slugs and snails feast on the sap of the herb, with a few species being extremely destructive. However, slugs and snails tend to favor cool areas and shade, while Lupines would rather be in the full sun with a little shade in the afternoon.
Some types of wild lupines are toxic, and animals and humans are suggested to avoid it, despite requiring a large dose for adverse symptoms to present themselves in humans. Lupins can be propagated easily, and though the herb self-seeds, successive plants may go back to being the parent blue lupine.
Many insects and aphids feed on these flowers and plants.
How To Grow And Care For Lupines
Lupines are prone to getting all sorts of diseases and issues related to pests infestation. Thus, it is important to monitor the herb constantly.
If the Lupines are planted during hot summers, it is important to provide them with plant support and water them frequently. Moreover, they should be planted in moist but well-drained soil as they do best in this soil form. Seeds of this plant tend to sprout different colored flowers, and these herbs can fix atmospheric nitrogen through nitrogen fixation.
This herb is best planted during spring and can be planted in fall and late springtime.
Lupine VS. Other Flowers
Lupine is a herb species that is in the family of Fabaceae. They produce flowers of different types and prefer sun to shade and moist yet well-drained soil. This species of herbs has been evidenced as being cultivated in history.
Lupins help in soil fertility through nitrogen-fixing, which aids other plants.
This flower used to be planted in the Roman Empire and by Egyptians and was a cultivated plant as food.
Unlike many other flowering herbs that provide food for living beings, Lupines are of different types, one of which is toxic and the other which are cultivated as sources of food. Additionally, this herb has many different shades of flowers but tends to revert to blue when self-seeded successively; thus, propagation via seeds is not done frequently.
Most species of this herb are typically herbaceous perennial plants that range from 1-5 ft (30-152 cm) in height, but some are annual plants that may grow up to 10 ft (3 m) tall.
FAQs
What does the lupine flower symbolize?
This species of herbs have symbolism related to wolves and the moon and symbolizes voraciousness and admiration.
How long do lupine flowers last?
Flowers of the lupine species can last up to four weeks in total.
When to plant lupine seeds?
It is recommended to plant the seed of this herb during spring in moist yet well-drained soil for optimal results.
When do lupines bloom?
Lupins that have started their growth after frost tend to bloom for the first time in late May or June and may continue flowering even in early August.
When to plant lupins?
It is best to plant these herbs during spring.
Does lupine spread?
They do not spread unless it is through re-seeding.
What do lupine seedlings look like?
The pod of the herb looks like a hair version of a pea pod.
What does a lupine flower look like?
They have a telltale look of tall shadowy spirals of flowers that are available in a multitude of colors.
How to plant Russell lupine seeds?
It is recommended to soak the seeds in water before planting them.
Can you grow lupines in pots?
Yes, they can grow in large containers if planted properly and given optimal conditions for growth.
Can lupines survive frost?
They are extremely hardy and will be able to withstand frost up to -13 F (-25 C), but could succumb to crown rot if in extreme wet conditions.
How long do lupine seeds last?
If kept in a cool dark place that is dry, they can last up to three years.
How do you take care of a lupine plant?
Lupines are susceptible to diseases and pests; thus, extra care should be given regarding ailments. Additionally, they love full sun.
How to harvest lupine flower seeds?
It is best to pick the seeds from the pods when they turn the color yellow and rattle inside them when shaken.
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Bachelor of Science specializing in Botany, Master of Science specializing in Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs
Sridevi ToletyBachelor of Science specializing in Botany, Master of Science specializing in Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs
With a Master's degree in clinical research from Manipal University and a PG Diploma in journalism from Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Sridevi has cultivated her passion for writing across various domains. She has authored a wide range of articles, blogs, travelogues, creative content, and short stories that have been published in leading magazines, newspapers, and websites. Sridevi is fluent in four languages and enjoys spending her spare time with loved ones. Her hobbies include reading, traveling, cooking, painting, and listening to music.
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