Lupin Lupinus 'Dumpty'
ABOUT
Lupinus 'Dumpty', commonly known as 'Dwarf Lupin' or simply 'Lupin', has a distinct and attractive appearance. The plant showcases a dense cluster of pea-like flowers which come in a variety of hues such as blue, white, pink, and purple that often feature a delightful multicolor pattern. These blossoms are densely packed into erect, pointed spires that rise above the foliage, giving the plant a stately and textured look. The foliage itself is composed of palmately compound leaves, which means each leaf is divided into smaller leaflets that radiate out from a central point, resembling the fingers of a hand. The leaflets have a smooth or slightly hairy texture and present a rich green color, creating a striking contrast against the vibrant flowers. The overall appearance of Lupinus 'Dumpty' is rounded and bushy, contributing to its ornamental value in garden landscapes where it provides a concentrated burst of color and a vertical element with its flower spikes. It is cherished by gardeners for its showy floral display and its ability to attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which adds dynamic life to its surroundings.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Dumpty Lupin, Dumpty Lupine.
Common names
Lupinus 'Dumpty'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Lupinus 'Dumpty' is lupine. Lupines are toxic to humans due to the presence of alkaloids, particularly in the seeds and pods. If ingested, the symptoms of poisoning can include dizziness, confusion, an accelerated heart rate, convulsions, and can even lead to death if consumed in large enough quantities. It is important for humans to avoid eating any part of the lupine plant.
To pets
The common name for Lupinus 'Dumpty' is lupine, which is also toxic to pets. The plant contains alkaloids which can cause poisoning. Symptoms in pets may include lethargy, vomiting, breathing difficulties, and convulsions. In severe cases, ingestion can be fatal. It is crucial to prevent pets from consuming any part of the lupine plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
3 feet (91 cm)
Spread
2 feet (61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Lupinus 'Dumpty', commonly known as Lupin, can attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity.
- Adds Color: Lupin flowers add vibrant colors to gardens, with spikes of pea-like flowers in a variety of hues.
- Nitrogen Fixation: Like other legumes, lupins improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen from the air into the soil.
- Erosion Control: The robust root system of Lupinus 'Dumpty' helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, lupins are quite drought-resistant, making them suitable for low-water gardens.
- Deer Resistance: Lupins are generally not preferred by deer, so they're less likely to be damaged in areas with deer populations.
- Versatility: They can be grown in borders, as part of a mixed bed, or in wildflower gardens, providing flexibility in landscape design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lupinus 'Dumpty', commonly known as lupine, can be used as a natural fabric dye, producing colors ranging from yellow to green depending on the mordant used.
- The plant's sturdy stalks may be utilized in crafting plant stakes or supports for lighter or more delicate plants in the garden.
- Fibers from lupine could be experimented with to create handmade paper, providing a unique texture and appearance.
- Lupine's seed pods, once dried, can become part of a rustic decor, adding a natural element to wreaths and floral arrangements.
- The bitter alkaloids can be used as a natural pest repellent, potentially deterring rodents and deer when applied around other plants.
- After removing the toxic seeds, the remaining husks can be composted to enrich garden soil, contributing to waste reduction.
- The deep root system of lupine can be exploited as a soil stabilizer, helping to prevent erosion on slopes and embankments.
- Dried lupine plants can serve as a biomass fuel source, potentially contributing to a renewable energy supply on a small scale.
- When included in intercropping systems, lupine plants can act as a living mulch, suppressing weeds and maintaining soil moisture.
- The visual appeal of lupine makes it suitable for use in photography and art, often as an attractive subject of botanical illustrations.
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 Lupinus 'Dumpty', commonly known as Lupine, often symbolizes imagination due to its rich variety of colors and its ability to thrive in wild settings, evoking a sense of creativity and wonder.
- Innovation: Lupine can also represent innovation, as the plant has been used in agriculture to improve soil quality through nitrogen fixation, demonstrating its role in adapting and transforming environments for agricultural advances.
- Transformation: The growth habit of the Lupine, from a simple seed to a tall, spike-like flower, is seen as a symbol of transformation and the idea that significant change can come from modest beginnings.
WaterLupines, including Lupinus 'Dumpty', prefer to be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage their deep taproot system. It is best to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may mean watering approximately once a week during active growth periods, depending on climate conditions. When watering, do so at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage, to prevent disease risk. The amount of water needed can vary, but as a general guideline, aim for about one to two gallons per plant every watering session, ensuring moisture reaches deep into the soil.
LightLupines, such as the Lupinus 'Dumpty', thrive in full sun conditions, which means they require direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. The best spot for planting lupines is in an area with unobstructed access to sunlight throughout the day, as too much shade can lead to poor flowering and leggy growth.
TemperatureLupines including Lupinus 'Dumpty', prefer a cooler climate and can tolerate temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for lupines is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, though they can withstand higher temperatures if not prolonged. Lupines may struggle if exposed to temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods.
PruningLupines, like Lupinus 'Dumpty', should be pruned to deadhead spent flowers and encourage additional blooming. Pruning also helps maintain the plant's appearance and prevents self-seeding if not desired. The best time for pruning is immediately after the initial flowering, with additional deadheading as necessary throughout the blooming season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLupine 'Dumpty', commonly known as Lupine, thrives best in a lightly acidic to neutral soil mix, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The ideal soil mix for Lupines should be well-draining with some organic matter, such as a blend of loamy soil, peat, and coarse sand. To ensure good drainage and prevent root rot, avoid heavy clay soils and consider adding perlite or pumice to the mix.
RepottingLupines typically do not require frequent repotting and can often be left undisturbed for several years. Repot "Lupine 'Dumpty'" only when it has outgrown its current container or if the soil has become compacted and depleted of nutrients, which may happen every 2 to 3 years.
Humidity & MistingLupines, such as 'Dumpty', prefer moderate humidity levels, consistent with outdoor conditions. They are not particularly demanding in terms of humidity and can adapt to the ambient humidity found in most garden environments without the need for special adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide good light and ensure well-draining soil mix.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil and space properly.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Lupinus 'Dumpty', commonly known as Dwarf Lupin, begins with seed germination which occurs in late winter to early spring when temperatures are consistent for growth. After germination, seedlings develop into young plants with characteristic palmate leaves. As the temperatures warm, the Dwarf Lupin enters its vegetative stage, during which it establishes a strong root system and leaf growth expands. Flowering typically occurs in late spring or early summer when the plant produces its distinctive colorful spires which can vary from purples, blues to yellows, attracting pollinators. After pollination, seed pods form and mature; the plant then enters senescence as the pods dry and eventually release seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant may die back in the winter, with the cycle beginning anew from the seeds or from perennial rootstocks in regions where it can survive year-round.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Lupine, specifically the Lupinus 'Dumpty' variety, is through seed germination. To successfully propagate Lupines from seeds, it's best done in the spring when the temperature starts to warm. The hard seed coat should be softened to enhance germination—this is often done by soaking the seeds in water for a minimum of 24 hours. After soaking, plant the seeds in a seed-starting medium, about a quarter-inch deep (approximately 6 millimeters). Place the container in a bright, warm location but out of direct sunlight until seeds germinate. Once they sprout and establish a set of true leaves, and the risk of frost has passed, they can be transplanted outdoors into the garden. Care should be taken to avoid disturbing the roots when transplanting, as Lupines prefer not to be moved once established.
