Large-leaved lupine
lupinus polyphyllus
Also known as: ["Bigleaf lupine","Many-leaved lupine"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to western North America, known for its tall spikes of pea-like flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Lupinus |
| Botanical Name: | Lupinus polyphyllus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) or partial shade; adjust for intense summer sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; avoid placing in direct, unfiltered afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage, ensure soil dries slightly between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
rich, moist, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay without amendments; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights and can withstand light frosts.
Protect from extreme temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent soil moisture; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive foliage growth; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; clean foliage after application.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes; seeds can also be sown in fall or early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep humid and moist.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer for cuttings; divide rhizomes in early spring before new growth emerges.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions (70–75°F or 21–24°C) with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; peat moss can help retain moisture.
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, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for cuttings; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; cut back leggy stems to promote bushier growth; remove any diseased or broken stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; thin overcrowded stems to improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean blades to prevent disease transmission.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; prune dead or diseased growth; deadhead spent flowers; thin crowded stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; 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 based on weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring the root zone is moistened but not waterlogged; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, increasing to twice weekly in hot, dry periods; reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged freezing temperatures without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; cover with frost cloth during hard freezes; avoid planting in exposed, windy sites.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid fertilizing during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid over-fertilization; stop before dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicLupinus polyphyllus is toxic to cats due to its quinolizidine alkaloid content. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal distress, neurological impairment, and potentially fatal paralysis. The alkaloids interfere with the nervous system, causing significant physiological harm.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe quinolizidine alkaloids in Lupinus polyphyllus are toxic to dogs. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, neurological symptoms, and potentially fatal paralysis. The alkaloids disrupt normal neurological function and can lead to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLupinus polyphyllus contains quinolizidine alkaloids, which are toxic to humans. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress, neurological effects, and in severe cases, paralysis or death. The alkaloids interfere with the nervous system and can cause significant physiological disruption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lupinus polyphyllus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How tall does Lupinus polyphyllus grow?
A: It typically grows to 1–1.5 meters (3–5 feet) tall.
Q: Does Lupinus polyphyllus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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