Sulla, French Sulla, Sugar Lupine
hedysarum coronarium
Also known as: ["Sulla","French Sulla","Sugar Lupine"]
Overview
A perennial legume native to the Mediterranean region, valued for its ornamental and forage qualities.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Hedysarum |
| Botanical Name: | Hedysarum coronarium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Lightly prune after flowering; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on desired shape and vigor.
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 to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a container plant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate container plants weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense summer sun; supplement with grow lights if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is never waterlogged; amend heavy soils with organic matter; test pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate to warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced fertilizer
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; fertilize after watering to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of established clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist. For division, dig up clump.
- Separate sections with roots.
- Replant immediately.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions (70–75°F or 21–24°C) with indirect light for cuttings; direct sunlight for divisions.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; garden soil for division.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for stem cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 4–6 weeks; division establishes quickly in the growing season.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture for cuttings; divide clumps every 2–3 years to rejuvenate.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node; cut back old growth to 6–8 inches in late winter.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container to prevent congestion and replenish soil nutrients.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; inspect roots for health; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
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 directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging, and water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds in heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback if below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move container plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for outdoor plants in cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower abortion, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with drought.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season, avoiding winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHedysarum coronarium is not known to be toxic to cats. It is generally safe for cats to consume in small quantities, though excessive consumption should be avoided.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHedysarum coronarium is not known to be toxic to dogs. It is commonly used as a forage plant and is generally safe for consumption by dogs in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHedysarum coronarium, commonly known as sainfoin, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is often used as forage for livestock and has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its nutritional and health benefits.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hedysarum coronarium toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.
Q: How often should Hedysarum coronarium be watered?
A: It is drought tolerant and requires moderate watering, especially during dry periods.
Q: Does Hedysarum coronarium attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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