Small-flowered Lupine
lupinus micranthus
Also known as: ["Small-flowered Lupin","Dwarf Lupine"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to Europe, known for its small, pea-like flowers arranged in dense spikes.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Lupinus |
| Botanical Name: | Lupinus micranthus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape and vigor.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun by providing afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if grown outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use mulch to retain moisture; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids prolonged frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late autumn to allow dormancy; use a low-nitrogen formula to avoid excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation; seeds are the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or collect seeds.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant cuttings or sow seeds.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots or germination.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; for seeds, use a seed-starting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for stem cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Seeds may take 2–4 weeks to germinate; stem cuttings typically root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil mix, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; keep seeds warm and moist for germination; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to encourage new growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased parts; shape the plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in a shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds if soil is heavy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death if below freezing.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch in cold spells; avoid planting in frost-prone areas; ensure good soil drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicLupinus micranthus is toxic to cats, containing quinolizidine alkaloids that can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects. Ingestion may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, paralysis or death. The alkaloids disrupt normal physiological processes, leading to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicLupinus micranthus is toxic to dogs due to the presence of quinolizidine alkaloids. These compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, neurological symptoms, and potentially fatal paralysis in dogs. The alkaloids interfere with normal cellular functions and can lead to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLupinus micranthus contains quinolizidine alkaloids, which are toxic to humans. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress, neurological effects, and in severe cases, paralysis or death. The toxicity is due to the disruption of normal cellular processes and the inhibition of certain enzymes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lupinus micranthus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How often should I water Lupinus micranthus?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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