Desert Sun Lupine Lupinus 'Desert Sun' (PBR)
ABOUT
Lupinus 'Desert Sun' is a vibrant and showy plant that features a stunning display of color. It is characterized by its lovely spires of flowers, which possess a beautiful gradient of yellow to orange hues, often creating a warm, sunlit effect that mirrors the glow of a desert sunset. These floral spikes are densely packed with individual blossoms, adding to the plant’s lush and robust appearance. The lush foliage of the Lupinus 'Desert Sun', commonly known as lupine, consists of palmate leaves that spread out in a star-like pattern. Each leaf is divided into several narrow leaflets, radiating outward, which have a somewhat velvety texture and a deep green color that contrasts strikingly with the brightly colored flowers. This lupine cultivar provides a texture and color burst in the garden setting, with its rich green leaves laying the perfect backdrop to the cheerful and eye-catching floral spires. The overall appearance of Lupinus 'Desert Sun' is one of warmth and brightness, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color and a touch of the dramatic to their landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae
Synonyms
Desert Sun Lupine
Common names
Lupinus 'Desert Sun' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Lupins, including the variety 'Desert Sun', are known to contain toxic alkaloids such as lupanine, which can cause poisoning if ingested. Symptoms of lupin poisoning can include dizziness, difficulty in breathing, convulsions, and an elevated heart rate. In severe cases, ingestion may lead to central nervous system depression and be potentially fatal. Therefore, caution is advised to avoid ingesting any part of lupins.
To pets
Lupins are also toxic to pets such as dogs and cats, and the 'Desert Sun' variety is no exception. Symptoms of lupin poisoning in pets can include vomiting, lethargy, agitation, anorexia, and even tremors. Severe cases may result in respiratory depression and cardiovascular collapse. It is imperative to prevent pets from ingesting any part of lupins, and if suspected poisoning occurs, immediate veterinary attention is required.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive to pollinators - Lupinus 'Desert Sun' is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Vivid Coloring - It provides vibrant yellow flowers that can add visual interest and color contrast to garden spaces.
- Drought-tolerant - Once established, this lupin variety is tolerant of dry conditions, making it suitable for low-water gardens.
- Easy maintenance - Typically requires minimal care once established, other than occasional deadheading to encourage more blooms.
- Improves soil - Like other members of the legume family, lupins can help fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility.
- Seasonal interest - Offers seasonal appeal with its spring and summer flowering period.
- Adaptable - Can adapt to a variety of soil types, though it prefers well-draining conditions.
- Perennial growth - As a perennial, it returns year after year, providing long-term presence in a garden setting.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lupine seeds from 'Desert Sun' can be used as a high-protein addition to animal feed, especially for livestock, after proper treatment to remove alkaloids.
- The plant's deep taproot system can be utilized for soil stabilization and erosion control in arid landscapes.
- Lupine flowers can be used in floral arrangements for their vibrant color and unique texture, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of bouquets.
- Dye can be extracted from the flowering parts of the lupine plant to create natural fabric dyes in shades of blue and purple.
- Lupine stems and foliage can be composted and used as a green manure to enrich garden soil with nutrients.
- Dried lupine seed pods can be used in craft projects and as a part of decorative displays in rustic-themed decor.
- 'Desert Sun' Lupine, with its attractive foliage, can be used as a natural backdrop in photography, particularly in garden settings.
- The fibrous stems of lupines have been traditionally used in basket weaving and other fiber arts.
- 'Desert Sun' Lupine can play a role in companion planting, deterring certain pests and attracting beneficial insects.
- The plant can be used in educational settings, such as school gardens, to teach about nitrogen-fixing plants and their role in ecosystem sustainability.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lupine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lupine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Imagination: The Lupine, often associated with vibrant colors and unique shapes, is symbolic of the imagination and creativity, reflecting the inventive spirit in various cultural traditions.
- Innovation: 'Desert Sun' as a distinct cultivar of Lupine, suggests a sense of innovation and new beginnings, akin to the creativity required to thrive in challenging environments like deserts.
- Transformation: The Lupine's growth from a simple seed into a striking plant is emblematic of transformation and personal growth, a common motif in nature-inspired metaphorical language.
- Endurance: Adapting to desert conditions as implied by its name, 'Desert Sun' represents endurance and resilience, qualities needed to persevere through harsh conditions.
WaterDesert Sun Lupine should be watered regularly, particularly during hot, dry periods, typically once a week with about 1 gallon of water per plant. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings; however, don't let it become completely dry. Adjust the amount of water during rainy seasons to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. When watering, direct the water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to minimize the risk of mildew and other fungal diseases.
LightDesert Sun Lupine thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. The plant's ideal spot is in an area that receives uninterrupted sunlight throughout the day. Avoid planting in shaded areas, as insufficient light may hinder bloom production and affect the plant's overall health.
TemperatureDesert Sun Lupine prefers moderate temperatures and will grow best when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to 20°F and maximum temperatures up to 85°F. These lupines may struggle in extreme heat or cold, so it is crucial to protect them from severe weather and frosts, particularly in early spring or late fall.
PruningPruning Desert Sun Lupine is important for maintaining its shape and encouraging more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to promote a second bloom. Prune lightly after the first flowering by cutting back about one-third of the plant's height. The best time to prune is immediately after the first bloom fades, usually in late spring or early summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Lupine 'Desert Sun', the best soil mix is well-draining, light, and slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix containing loam, sand, and peat or a compost amendment is ideal.
RepottingLupine 'Desert Sun' does not require frequent repotting and should only be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingLupine 'Desert Sun' prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and does not require specific humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and cool temps for indoor Lupine 'Desert Sun'.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and provide occasional water for outdoor Lupine 'Desert Sun'.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleLupine 'Desert Sun' starts its life as a seed that, when sown and given the proper conditions, will germinate and produce a small seedling. The seedling will grow into a juvenile plant, developing a strong root system and foliage, before entering the vegetative stage where it focuses on leaf growth. As it matures, it progresses to the flowering stage, where it develops distinctive colorful spires of flowers, typical of Lupines, which are attractive to pollinators. After pollination, the flowers will produce pods containing seeds, thus completing the reproductive stage. Once the seeds are mature, they are dispersed from the parent plant, and this perennial plant may enter a period of dormancy, especially in colder climates, before starting the cycle anew in the next growing season. Over several years, Lupine 'Desert Sun' will reach maturity, with its life span typically ranging from a few years to several years depending on growing conditions and care.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Lupine 'Desert Sun', a stunning perennial known for its vibrant colors, can be propagated primarily through seed sowing. The best time to sow Lupine seeds is in spring, around April to May, when the danger of frost has passed and the soil has begun to warm up. To propagate, soak the seeds in water for a period of 24 hours to soften the tough outer shell, which will foster germination. After soaking, sow the seeds about 1/8 inch (approximately 3 millimeters) deep in a well-draining soil mix. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged as the seeds germinate, which usually takes a few weeks. Once the seedlings have developed a couple of true leaves, they can be transplanted to their final location in the garden, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (around 30 to 46 centimeters) apart to allow for mature growth. It's important to note that with patented plant varieties like Lupinus 'Desert Sun' (PBR), reproduction through seeds or any other method may be legally restricted due to plant breeders' rights.
