Lupinus angustifolius aka European Blue Lupine
Taxonomy
Lupinus angustifolius, also known as narrowleaf lupin, narrow-leaved lupin, or blue lupin, is a species of lupin native to Eurasia and northern Africa. It has also been naturalized in parts of Australia and North America. This upright and bushy annual plant can reach a height of about 1 meter and features leaves composed of narrow leaflets arranged in a whorl. During the summer, it produces short spires of purple-blue, pea-like flowers, which are followed by seeds that can be processed and consumed. With a history of cultivation spanning over 6000 years, Lupinus angustifolius has been grown as a food crop for its edible legume seeds, as well as a fodder for livestock and green manure. Additionally, it is worth noting that this species is considered invasive in Northern Europe and New Zealand.
Common names
European Blue Lupine, New Zealand Blue Lupin, Blue Lupine, Blue Lupin, Narrow Leaved LupinHow to care for European Blue Lupine
Difficulty
European Blue Lupine presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
European Blue Lupine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
European Blue Lupine loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
European Blue Lupine thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Blue Lupine.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it's common for European Blue Lupine to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
Repotting the European Blue Lupine is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.
Region of origin
European Blue Lupine’s native range is Europe - Mediterranean.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Lupinus Genus
Lupinus shockleyi Purple Desert Lupine
Lupinus sparsiflorus Coulter's Lupine
Lupinus stiversii Harlequin Lupine
Lupinus arbustus Long Spurred Lupine
Lupinus truncatus Collared Annual Lupine
Lupinus chamissonis Chamisso Bush Lupine
Lupinus excubitus Grape Soda Lupine
Lupinus hirsutissimus Stinging Annual Lupine
