Lupine Flower Facts That You Should Definitely Know About
Gallery
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.
We Want Your Photos!
More for You
See All
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.
Disclaimer
1) Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. If you purchase using the Buy Now button we may earn a small commission. This does not influence our choices. Prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published but we cannot guarantee that on the time of reading. Please note that Kidadl is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content.
2) At Kidadl, we strive to recommend the very best activities and events. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so it’s important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate for all children and families or in all circumstances. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong.
3) Because we are an educational resource, we have quotes and facts about a range of historical and modern figures. We do not endorse the actions of or rhetoric of all the people included in these collections, but we think they are important for growing minds to learn about under the guidance of parents or guardians.