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We took a walk on North Haven and passed this field of lupine in full bloom. It's June - they're blooming everywhere. I was curious about their origin and found some pretty interesting stuff.
Lupine are not native to New England
Lupines are not native to New England. They were initially planted in Europe to stabilize
soils and feed animals, according to the New England Historical
Society, and bears like to eat their roots. In some European countries,
lupines are so prolific that they threaten to crowd out forest herbs.
Though some lupines are successful food crops for animals, other
varieties are toxic to animals and can cause discomfort for us humans if
eaten. While the poison is present mainly in the seeds of the plants,
small amounts are also in the foliage. Additionally, lupines post a risk
to the plant community because they are susceptible to several fungal
diseases and viruses and are host to a type of aphid that has few
natural predators.
The lupine most of us see are considered invasive
In years past, there was a species of Lupine that was native to Maine, Lupinus perennis,
but it is now so scarce that it is nearly extirpated from the state of
Maine. The lupine you see along Maine's highways are not native to Maine. It is Bigleaf
lupine, Lupinus polyphyllus, which originated in the western
United States. This plant was introduced to Maine as a landscaping
plant, and quickly got out of control. It is what we refer to as an
invasive species that can crowd
native species out of their preferred habitats. Also, their seeds are
toxic to animals if too many are consumed, which could threaten both
grazing farm animals and native herbivores.
The National Park Service prioritizes protecting native species and
works to eliminate nonnative invasive species. Currently, the park
removes Bigleaf lupine when it encroaches upon natural habitat.
This species spreads like any recognized invasive plant and it has
displaced both rare and common Maine plants. Lupine could have an impact
on the migratory monarch butterfly because it crowds out native
milkweed. The larva of the monarch depends on milkweed as its host
plant; it cannot eat lupine.
They are a good source of nectar for pollinating insects and has been known to
attract hummingbirds. This plant also provides regulating ecosystem
services, as it has deep roots that help prevent erosion, as well as
supporting services, as it is a legume and thus fixes nitrogen and
returns it to the soil.
Now what?
Hmmm..so lupines are beginning to take over my flower gardens. They are popping up everywhere. Guess I need to pull a few of them.
The Lupine Dilemna • 8" x 8" acrylic framed to 12" x 12" • $275
