Tree Lupine
lupinus arboreus
Also known as: ["Golden Lupine","Yellow Bush Lupine"]
Overview
A fast-growing, deciduous shrub native to coastal regions of California and Oregon, known for its bright yellow flowers and toxic seeds.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Lupinus |
| Botanical Name: | Lupinus arboreus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens or open, sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; poor drainage can cause root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Lightly prune after flowering; shape as needed in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun promotes flowering; rotate pots for even growth; avoid deep shade for best performance.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates coastal conditions and moderate heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Fertilize sparingly; avoid over-fertilization; focus on phosphorus and potassium for blooms.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; seeds are the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
- Or sow seeds shallowly and keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for cuttings; autumn or spring for seeds.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or seed-starting medium; add perlite for aeration.
Hormone
Optional for cuttings; not necessary for seeds.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks; cuttings root in 4–6 weeks; plants establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings humid; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems; cut back weak or damaged growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; deadhead spent flowers; shape lightly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf damage, slow growth, or dormancy; frost can kill tender parts.
Solution: Plant in sheltered locations; use frost cloth or mulch for protection; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, or leaf scorch; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; water deeply to cool roots; mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of quinolizidine alkaloids found in Lupinus arboreus. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological distress, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe quinolizidine alkaloids in Lupinus arboreus are toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. These compounds disrupt normal cellular functions, leading to systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLupinus arboreus contains quinolizidine alkaloids, primarily lupanine, which are toxic to humans. Ingestion can lead to neurological and gastrointestinal disturbances due to the alkaloids' effects on the central nervous system and digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lupinus arboreus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does this plant require much water?
A: It is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiency.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
