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Lupinus polyphyllus

Lupinus polyphyllus, commonly known as bigleaf lupine or garden lupine, is a perennial herbaceous legume in the family Fabaceae, characterized by erect stems reaching 50–150 cm in height, palmately compound leaves with 7–17 leaflets, and showy racemes of flowers ranging from white and pink to purple and blue that bloom from May to August.^[1]^[2]^[3] Native to western North America, it features hollow stalks, hairy to smooth foliage, and seed pods containing 3–9 mottled brown seeds, with plants capable of nitrogen fixation via symbiotic rhizobia, contributing to soil enrichment.^[1]^[4] This species thrives in moist, cool climates on acidic, nutrient-poor soils, often in subalpine meadows, streambanks, and disturbed areas up to 3,000 m elevation.^[1]^[2] Distributed primarily from British Columbia southward to California and eastward to Montana, Idaho, and Nevada, L. polyphyllus has become invasive in regions outside its native range, including the Midwest, Northeast United States, Great Lakes states, and eastern Canada, where it forms dense stands that outcompete native vegetation.^[1]^[5] In its introduced habitats, such as parts of Maine and Acadia National Park, it aggressively spreads via prolific seed production (up to 30,000 seeds per pound) and tolerance for disturbed soils, potentially reducing biodiversity by displacing species like milkweed essential for monarch butterflies and native lupines such as Lupinus perennis.^[5]^[6] Ecologically, it supports pollinators like bees and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich flowers and aids in erosion control through deep roots, but its alkaloids render seeds toxic to livestock and wildlife when consumed in quantity, posing risks in grazing areas.^[1]^[5] Cultivated widely as an ornamental for its fragrant, tall spikes since its introduction to gardens in the 19th century, L. polyphyllus is also valued in restoration projects for revegetation, soil stabilization, and nitrogen fixation, particularly in moist, sunny sites.^[1] Indigenous peoples, including the Thompson, Salishan, Kwakiutl, and Kashaya Pomo, have historically used it for medicinal and ceremonial purposes.^[1] Hybrids like the Russell series, derived from L. polyphyllus and other species, enhance its popularity in horticulture but exacerbate invasiveness in non-native regions, prompting management efforts such as manual removal and herbicide application to protect ecosystems.^[1]^[5]

Description

Morphology

Lupinus polyphyllus is a perennial herbaceous plant with a semirosulate growth habit, forming a basal rosette and reaching heights of 0.6–1.5 m, supported by a robust taproot system that can extend up to 180 cm deep in optimal conditions.^[7]^[8] The plant develops as a hemicryptophyte, overwintering with buds near or below the soil surface, and lacks rhizomes, relying instead on adventitious shoots for regrowth.^[7] The stems are erect and robust, often 1–several per plant, hollow at the base with a diameter of about 12 mm, branching from the base and covered in silky hairs; they exhibit a reddish tint at the base and a pentagonal to roundish cross-section.^[7]^[9] Leaves are palmately compound, arranged in whorls along the stems, with 9–17 oblong to lanceolate leaflets per leaf, each measuring 3–15 cm long and 0.5–2.5 cm wide, bright green, and adorned with silky hairs on both surfaces, though rarely glabrous.^[7]^[8]^[9] Flowers are zygomorphic and pea-like, 1–1.5 cm long, arranged in dense terminal racemes that can reach 15–60 cm in length and contain 50–130 blooms; the typical coloration is blue to purple, often with white or yellow markings on the banner petal, though pink or white variants occur.^[7]^[8]^[9] Blooming occurs from May to July in native ranges, extending to September in introduced areas.^[7] Fruits develop as hairy pods, 2–4 cm long and about 7 mm wide, containing 4–12 seeds; these pods are initially green, turning dark brown to black upon maturity in summer, and dehisce explosively to disperse the rounded, kidney-shaped seeds, which measure approximately 4–8 mm long and feature mottled brown patterns.^[7]^[8]^[9] In hybrid forms, such as those derived from ornamental breeding, morphological variations include expanded color ranges in flowers (e.g., red or yellow) and altered leaflet counts or pod sizes, though the core structure remains similar to the wild type.^[8]^[7]

Reproduction

Lupinus polyphyllus exhibits a flowering phenology adapted to temperate climates, with inflorescences emerging in late spring and extending through summer. The tall racemes, often reaching over 50 cm, elongate gradually as they develop, with flowers opening sequentially from the base upward, beginning as early as May in southern regions and extending to early July in northern areas.^[10]^[11] This acropetal flowering pattern ensures prolonged bloom periods, typically lasting about three months per individual plant, and supports sustained pollinator attraction.^[7] The species is self-compatible, allowing for autogamous pollination, though cross-pollination significantly enhances seed set, with open-pollinated inflorescences producing over 80 additional seeds compared to self-pollinated ones.^[12]^[11] Pollination occurs primarily through bumblebees (Bombus spp.), which employ buzz or pumping mechanisms to access pollen; the flower's keel petals enclose the reproductive structures, releasing pollen granules upon vibration while the stigma contacts the insect's body for pollen transfer.^[10]^[7] Solitary bees and occasionally hummingbirds also visit the nectar- and pollen-rich blooms, contributing to reproductive success during the mid-spring to mid-summer period.^[10] Following pollination, seed production involves the development of linear pods containing 4–12 rounded, hard-coated seeds per pod, with individual plants capable of yielding 300–2,000 seeds annually.^[7] The pods dehisce explosively upon maturity, propelling seeds several meters from the parent plant to facilitate dispersal. These orthodox seeds maintain viability for several years under cool, dry storage conditions, though their hard seed coat imposes physical dormancy that requires scarification—such as mechanical abrasion, acid treatment, or hot water soaking—to achieve germination rates exceeding 60%.^[7]^[10] Vegetative reproduction is limited in L. polyphyllus, occurring infrequently through adventitious root sprouting primarily in response to disturbance, such as cutting or soil disruption, rather than via extensive rhizomes.^[7] This resprouting allows for clonal regrowth at rates of about 0.2 m per year but is not a dominant mode of propagation compared to sexual reproduction.^[7] Germination is optimal under moist, cool conditions following a period of cold stratification, typically mimicking winter exposure for 4–12 weeks at 1–5°C, which breaks dormancy and promotes uniform emergence in spring (March–April).^[12]^[7] Seeds sown in fall benefit from natural stratification, germinating readily in wet soils the following spring, with success rates of 63–69% in neutral to slightly acidic media; inoculation with Rhizobium lupini further enhances establishment by supporting nitrogen fixation.^[10]^[7]

Taxonomy

Etymology

The genus name Lupinus is derived from the Latin word lupus, meaning "wolf," stemming from an ancient belief that plants in this genus voraciously depleted soil nutrients, akin to a wolf ravaging its prey; in reality, lupines enrich the soil by fixing atmospheric nitrogen through symbiotic bacteria in their root nodules.^[13]^[7] The specific epithet polyphyllus originates from the Greek words polús (πολύς), meaning "many," and phúllon (φύλλον), meaning "leaf," alluding to the species' characteristic palmately compound leaves with numerous (typically 9–17) leaflets.^[7] Lupinus polyphyllus is known by several common names, including bigleaf lupine, large-leaved lupine, garden lupin, and meadow lupine, reflecting its prominent foliage and widespread use in horticulture.^[14] The species was first formally described in 1827 by the British botanist John Lindley, based on plants raised from seeds collected in western North America by the Scottish explorer and plant collector David Douglas during his expeditions from 1825 to 1827.^[7]^[15]

Varieties and hybrids

Lupinus polyphyllus is divided into several recognized varieties, primarily distinguished by geographic distribution, leaflet morphology, pubescence, and subtle flower color variations. The nominate variety, var. polyphyllus, is the most widespread, occurring across much of the species' native range from Alaska to California, with 9–17 leaflets per leaf that are glabrous to sparsely pubescent and typically blue-violet flowers.^[16] Var. burkei, endemic to interior regions including Idaho and adjacent areas in the northwestern United States, features 5–9 leaflets that are more densely pubescent, contributing to a silkier appearance, and flowers in shades of deep blue to purple.^[17] Var. humicola, found in interior western North America, has 7–12 leaflets with moderate pubescence and blue to purple flowers, often in drier montane habitats. The southern variety, var. pallidipes, found from northern California southward, has 9–17 leaflets with sparse hairs on the lower surfaces (pallid appearance) and pale blue to whitish flowers.^[18] These morphological differences aid in taxonomic identification but can overlap due to hybridization potential within the species. Notable hybrids of L. polyphyllus have been developed for ornamental and agricultural purposes, expanding its utility beyond wild forms. The Russell lupins, bred in the United Kingdom by horticulturist George Russell between the 1910s and 1930s through selective crossing of L. polyphyllus with species like L. arboreus and L. nootkatensis, introduced a spectrum of vibrant flower colors including red, yellow, pink, and white, while retaining tall spikes up to 1 meter. These hybrids were first commercially debuted in 1937 and remain popular in gardens for their showy racemes and perennial habit. Modern breeding efforts have focused on low-alkaloid strains suitable for fodder, such as the Russian cultivar series "Pervenec," developed in the late 20th century to reduce toxic quinolizidine alkaloids, enabling safer use as livestock feed in northern climates. However, escaped ornamental hybrids pose risks of genetic contamination in wild populations through interbreeding, potentially altering local genetic diversity and adaptability.^[19] Phylogenetically, L. polyphyllus belongs to subgenus Lupinus within the genus, characterized by sessile cotyledons and North American distribution. It shares close affinities with eastern North American species like L. perennis, evidenced by overlapping morphological traits and documented hybridization potential, placing both in the same subgeneric clade based on molecular and morphological analyses.^[20]

Distribution and Habitat

Native range

Lupinus polyphyllus is native to western North America, possibly extending to southern Alaska and ranging from British Columbia eastward to Alberta, Montana, and western Wyoming, and southward through Idaho, Utah, Nevada, and California.^[21]^[10]^[14] This distribution encompasses coastal ranges, interior mountains, and associated lowlands across a diverse topographic gradient. The native status in Alaska is disputed, with some sources considering it introduced.^[22] The species occurs at elevations from sea level to approximately 3,000 meters, with a preference for low to mid-elevations where conditions support its growth. It thrives in climates characterized by cool, humid summers and moderate to high annual precipitation of 50–150 cm, often in oceanic or subalpine regimes that provide consistent moisture.^[23] Within its native range, L. polyphyllus inhabits moist meadows, stream banks, forest edges, and bogs, favoring open, fertile areas where it forms dense colonies through vegetative spread and seed dispersal.^[10]^[24]

Introduced range

Lupinus polyphyllus, commonly known as garden lupine, has been introduced to various regions outside its native western North American range primarily for ornamental gardening, soil stabilization, and cultivation purposes. In eastern North America, it was introduced through landscaping efforts, with established populations now found across the Midwest, Northeast United States, Great Lakes states, and eastern Canada, including states such as Minnesota and Wisconsin.^[25]^[5] In Europe, the species was first brought to the United Kingdom in the early 19th century by plant collector David Douglas, and it subsequently spread to Scandinavia and other areas, including Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Poland, and parts of Russia.^[19]^[7] It was introduced to New Zealand after 1930 as a garden plant and intentionally sown along road verges around 1950, while in Australia, introductions occurred for similar ornamental and stabilization uses.^[8]^[26] In Asia, it has been recorded in regions such as Siberia and western Russia.^[27] Additionally, populations exist in South America, including Argentina and Chile.^[28] The species has successfully established in these introduced areas, particularly in temperate climates with moist conditions akin to its native habitats, where it naturalizes in disturbed environments such as road verges, grasslands, riverbanks, and meadows.^[8]^[7] Its establishment is facilitated by tolerance to a range of soil types, including acidic and nutrient-poor substrates, allowing it to form dense stands in open, sunny sites.^[8] Dispersal in introduced ranges occurs mainly through human-mediated vectors, including the transport of seeds via horticultural trade, contaminated hay and fodder, and adherence to vehicles and machinery, which promote rapid colonization of disturbed sites.^[8]^[7] Natural seed dispersal by wind and water contributes locally, but anthropogenic activities drive the broader expansion.^[8] In recent years, notable expansions have been observed in northern Europe, with rapid increases in Finland and Sweden during the 2020s attributed to warming temperatures from climate change, enhancing germination and survival rates in previously marginal areas.^[8]^[29]^[30]

Ecology

Habitat preferences

Lupinus polyphyllus thrives in well-drained soils ranging from sandy to loamy textures, with a preference for pH levels between 5.5 and 7.0, tolerating mildly acidic to neutral conditions.^[31]^[32] As a legume, it forms a symbiotic relationship with Bradyrhizobium bacteria in root nodules, enabling nitrogen fixation that allows it to grow in nutrient-poor soils, though it performs poorly in heavy clay or compacted substrates.^[8]^[33] The plant favors consistently moist sites, particularly in its native habitats along streambanks and meadows, but demonstrates drought tolerance once established due to its deep root system.^[21]^[1] It is sensitive to waterlogging, which can lead to root rot in poorly drained areas.^[34] Lupinus polyphyllus requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and flowering, performing best in open, competitive environments like meadows where it can access ample light.^[21]^[34] This species is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8, enduring winter temperatures down to approximately -25°C, and grows most vigorously in cool temperate climates with moderate summers.^[32]^[35] In riparian zones, Lupinus polyphyllus commonly co-occurs with sedges and willows, contributing to the structure of moist, open wetland edges.^[36]

Wildlife interactions

Lupinus polyphyllus relies primarily on bumblebees (Bombus spp.) for pollination, as its flowers produce abundant protein-rich pollen but no nectar. Bumblebees forage upward along the vertical inflorescences, visiting only about 15% of flowers per plant despite sufficient pollen availability for multiple collections, which facilitates effective pollen transfer through the flower's pumping mechanism. This dependence highlights the plant's adaptation to specialist pollinators in its native moist meadows and streambanks.^[37]^[7]^[38] The leaves of L. polyphyllus contain quinolizidine alkaloids, such as lupanine and sparteine, which render them toxic to livestock and deter most generalist herbivores, potentially causing poisoning if ingested in quantity. Despite this toxicity, deer occasionally browse the foliage in native habitats, while birds and small mammals consume the seeds from maturing pods, aiding in dispersal. In its western North American range, the plant supports a community of specialist insect herbivores, including aphids (Macrosiphon albifrons) and weevils (Tychius lineelus), which have co-evolved with its chemical defenses.^[7]^[39]^[40] L. polyphyllus forms symbiotic root nodules with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, primarily Bradyrhizobium spp., enabling atmospheric nitrogen fixation that supports growth in nutrient-poor soils. Although arbuscular mycorrhizal associations are weak and occur at low colonization rates (<10%), they provide some enhancement to phosphorus uptake, particularly under stress conditions like drought. As a larval host plant for specialist butterflies such as the lupine blue (Icaricia lupini) in its native Pacific Northwest range, it contributes to local biodiversity; however, in introduced eastern ranges, hybrids and escapes outcompete the native L. perennis, misleading Karner blue butterfly (Plebejus melissa samuelis) oviposition and threatening its survival. Pre-2023 studies in the native range indicate balanced interactions with limited negative effects on overall biodiversity, as the plant integrates into diverse meadow communities without dominating or reducing species richness.^[7]^[41]^[6]

Cultivation and Uses

Ornamental cultivation

Lupinus polyphyllus, commonly known as bigleaf lupine or garden lupine, is widely cultivated as an ornamental perennial for its tall spikes of vibrant, pea-like flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer, adding vertical interest and color to borders, cottage gardens, and wildflower meadows.^[34] The plant forms dense clumps of palmate leaves, typically reaching 1 to 1.5 meters in height, and is valued for attracting pollinators such as bumblebees while providing a striking backdrop for lower-growing perennials.^[42] In ornamental settings, it thrives in cool climates and is often grown from hybrids derived from the species, though the pure form offers blue to purple flowers.^[13] Propagation of L. polyphyllus for ornamental purposes can be achieved through seeds, division, or basal cuttings. Seeds are typically sown in fall for natural stratification or in early spring after scarification (nicking the seed coat) and soaking in warm water for 24-48 hours to improve germination rates, which can reach 70-80% under optimal conditions; seedlings are transplanted when they have developed a short taproot, about 4-6 weeks after starting indoors.^[34] Division of established clumps is performed in spring, separating multiple crowns and replanting immediately into prepared soil to maintain vigor, while basal cuttings of 8-10 cm shoots taken in mid-spring root readily in a mix of perlite and compost under mist or in a propagator.^[42] Ideal site requirements include full sun exposure for profuse blooming, though light afternoon shade is tolerated in hotter regions, paired with moist but well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0) enriched with organic matter to support the plant's deep taproot.^[13] Plants should be spaced 30-45 cm apart to allow for clump development and air circulation, preventing disease; loosen the soil 30-45 cm deep at planting to accommodate roots.^[34] Regular watering is essential during the first growing season to establish plants, but mature specimens are moderately drought-tolerant once rooted.^[42] L. polyphyllus is hardy in USDA zones 4-8, tolerating winter temperatures down to -30°C (-22°F), though applying a 5-10 cm layer of mulch around the base in fall provides winter protection and helps retain soil moisture.^[43] To prolong blooming and encourage reblooming, deadhead spent flower spikes promptly after fading, cutting back to the base; this also reduces self-seeding in controlled garden settings.^[34] The plant is short-lived, typically 3-5 years, but can be extended through division; avoid over-fertilizing, as excess nitrogen leads to leggy growth and fewer flowers.^[42] Common pests include aphids and slugs, which can be managed by removing infested parts, using a strong water spray, or applying barriers; the plant's quinolizidine alkaloids act as natural deterrents against many herbivores, including deer and rabbits, though they pose toxicity risks if ingested in large quantities.^[13]^[44] Diseases such as root rot occur in poorly drained, wet soils, while powdery mildew and anthracnose may affect foliage in humid conditions—ensure good spacing and avoid overhead watering to mitigate these.^[34] Popular cultivars derived from L. polyphyllus include the Russell series, developed in the early 20th century, which offers a spectrum of colors such as deep blue, pink, red, yellow, and white in tall spikes up to 90 cm, prized for their uniformity and garden performance.^[34] The 'Albus' cultivar features pure white flowers, providing contrast in mixed plantings and suitable for moon gardens.^[45]

Agricultural and ecological uses

Lupinus polyphyllus serves as a valuable nitrogen-fixing legume in agricultural systems, forming symbiotic relationships with Rhizobium lupini bacteria to enhance soil fertility. Inoculation with appropriate rhizobia strains is often recommended to optimize fixation in disturbed or nitrogen-poor soils.^[46]^[1] Low-alkaloid cultivars of L. polyphyllus, such as those developed through breeding programs for reduced quinolizidine alkaloid content, are utilized as fodder for livestock, providing high-protein hay or silage. Examples include sweet varieties like 'Pervenec' and early selections from Soviet-era breeding, which maintain alkaloid levels below 0.02% to ensure safety for ruminants. Wild or high-alkaloid forms are avoided due to toxicity risks, but processed low-alkaloid biomass supports sustainable forage production in rotation systems.^[47]^[48] Ecologically, L. polyphyllus aids in erosion control and revegetation efforts, particularly on slopes and streambanks, owing to its deep root system that stabilizes soil and prevents runoff. It is commonly planted in restoration projects for prairies, wetlands, and post-logging sites, with seeding rates of 10–35 lb/acre promoting rapid cover and habitat recovery. Additionally, its nectar-rich flowers serve as a forage source for bees, including native and bumblebee species, supporting pollinator populations and honey production in native ecosystems, though it plays a more prominent role in pollen provision.^[1]^[8] Historically, indigenous peoples of western North America, including the Thompson, Salishan, Kwakiutl, and Kashaya Pomo tribes, utilized L. polyphyllus for food (unspecified by Kwakiutl), as a tonic (Salish), as a poison and medicinally (Thompson), and ceremonially (Kashaya Pomo).^[49]

Invasiveness and Conservation

Invasive impacts

Lupinus polyphyllus, an invasive perennial herb in its introduced ranges, exerts negative ecological effects through several mechanisms that facilitate its dominance over native vegetation. Its rapid growth and tall stature (up to 1.5 m) enable shading and resource competition, suppressing low-growing native plants. Additionally, the species produces high seed outputs, with individual plants capable of generating up to 2,654 seeds annually, contributing to prolific dispersal and establishment. As a nitrogen-fixing legume, it enriches soil nitrogen levels, altering nutrient dynamics and favoring nitrophilous (nitrogen-tolerant) species while disadvantaging oligotrophic natives adapted to nutrient-poor conditions.^[50]^[7]^[51] The invasion leads to significant biodiversity loss by outcompeting native flora and altering community composition in open habitats such as meadows and grasslands. Studies in semi-natural grasslands show that L. polyphyllus reduces vascular plant species richness by approximately 40%, from an average of 19.7 species per square meter in uninvaded plots to 11.9 in invaded ones, with similar 16% reductions observed in Finnish road verges. This decline particularly affects graminoids and low-growing herbs, homogenizing plant communities and decreasing overall diversity. Furthermore, the species hybridizes with local lupines where present, potentially eroding genetic diversity in native populations, as evidenced by high polymorphism in invasive stands from recent genetic analyses. Impacts extend to fauna, with reduced abundance of butterflies and other insects due to loss of native host plants and altered habitat structure.^[52]^[51]^[53] In regions like New Zealand, Scandinavia, and Finland, L. polyphyllus threatens endemic biodiversity in grasslands, riverbeds, road verges, and peatlands. In New Zealand, it smothers native tussock grasslands and braided river ecosystems, displacing specialist plants and providing cover for introduced predators that impact ground-nesting birds. Scandinavian road verges of high conservation value experience persistent species richness declines independent of invasion age, while in Finland, it invades nutrient-poor semi-natural habitats, reducing plant and insect diversity. Recent 2023–2025 studies highlight how the species' genetic diversity enhances its persistence and adaptability in these areas. Specific threats include displacement of orchids, such as lesser butterfly-orchids in invaded meadows, and butterflies reliant on native flora for larval hosting.^[54]^[55]^[56] Economic repercussions arise from the need for ongoing control in agricultural and conservation contexts, with management costs estimated at around 30,000 euros annually in Germany alone for containment efforts. These impacts underscore the species' role in ecosystem degradation beyond its native North American range.^[8]

Management and conservation status

Management of Lupinus polyphyllus as an invasive species primarily involves mechanical, chemical, and emerging biological control methods tailored to local contexts. Manual pulling is effective for small infestations, particularly when roots are fully removed to prevent regrowth, though it requires repeated efforts due to the plant's perennial nature and seed bank longevity.^[8] Mowing before seed set, ideally between late June and early July based on phenological stages where less than 50% of flowers are open, significantly reduces biomass and reproductive output by limiting nutrient reallocation to roots.^[57] Herbicide applications, such as glyphosate, target larger stands but must account for the species' resprouting ability and potential non-target effects on native flora.^[1] Biocontrol trials using endemic pathogens, including fungi like Colletotrichum lupini, have shown promise in New Zealand for suppressing growth in riverbeds, though host specificity and efficacy remain under evaluation.^[58] Eradication campaigns have mobilized community and governmental efforts in invaded regions. In Sweden, the annual "Great Lupine Combat Day" events, formalized by 2024, engage volunteers in manual removal along roadsides and cultural landscapes, blending conservation with heritage preservation to counter the plant's spread.^[59] In New Zealand, community-led initiatives in areas like the Lindis Pass received funding in 2024 to eradicate stands threatening native habitats, combining manual control with monitoring to protect braided river ecosystems.^[60] The conservation status of L. polyphyllus reflects its native security contrasted with invasive concerns. The species has not been assessed by the IUCN Red List as of 2025, reflecting its wide distribution and stable populations in western North America. As an invasive, it appears on regulatory lists in the European Union and Norway, where it is prioritized for control in sensitive ecosystems like alpine meadows. It is listed as a species of Union concern under EU Regulation No 1143/2014.^[61] Similar restrictions apply in Norway, aligning with EU directives on high-risk plants.^[62] Ongoing monitoring highlights challenges in management. Genetic studies from 2025 reveal high molecular variation within and between invasive populations across the East European Plain, contributing to resilience against control measures and complicating eradication.^[63] Climate change projections suggest potential range expansion into higher latitudes, driven by the species' tolerance to drought and frost, necessitating adaptive monitoring strategies.^[7] Policy responses emphasize prevention. Sale and cultivation of L. polyphyllus have been banned in parts of Europe, including Finland since 2019, under national invasive alien species regulations to curb further introductions.^[64] Similar restrictions apply in Norway, aligning with EU directives on high-risk plants.^[62]

References

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Feb 2, 2023 · The western lupine, Lupinus polyphyllus, has taken its place. These two species may look alike but have very different stories to tell.
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bigleaf lupine. General Information. Symbol. LUPO2. Group. Dicot. Duration. Perennial. Growth Habits. Forb/herb. Native Status. AK I? | CAN N | L48 N ...
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Dunn (1977) recognized three varieties, D. Isely (1998) recognized six varieties, and C. L. Hitchcock et al. (1955–1969, vol. 3) recognized three varieties.
[20]
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Lupinus polyphyllus [ssp. polyphyllus] var. pallidipes is in northern California (below 2500 meters) to southern British Columbia (Canada), occurring in moist ...
[21]
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The native range of this species is W. Canada to WUSA, E. Canada to N. Central & NE. USA. It is a perennial and grows primarily in the temperate biome.
[22]
Lupinus polyphyllus - Northwest Wildflowers
Lupinus polyphyllus ; 61. Leaflets usually silky; flowers 8–14(–18) mm; corollas pale purple to bright blue, sometimes yellowish or whitish; banner silky-hairy ...
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[28]
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Origin. N. America. Reason for introduction. Ornamental; now seriously invasive in South Canterbury, especially in gravel river beds and on road verges. See ...
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Scientific Name. Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. ; Synonyms. Lupinus 'Russell Hybrid' (misapplied) ; Family. Fabaceae (Queensland, the ACT, Victoria, Tasmania, and the ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[30]
Lupinus polyphyllus - FNA - Flora of North America
Mar 12, 2025 · History · Page ... w North America, introduced in South America (Argentina, Chile), Eurasia, Pacific Islands (New Zealand), Australia.Missing: Europe Asia
[31]
The invasive legume Lupinus polyphyllus has minor site‐specific ...
Feb 13, 2024 · Lupinus polyphyllus (Lindl.), a legume in the family Fabaceae, is an invasive, short‐lived perennial herb. It is originally from the western ...
[32]
The Ecological Impact of Lupinus polyphyllus Spread in Sweden
Oct 21, 2025 · This study examines the spatial, temporal, and ecological impacts of Lupinus polyphyllus in Sweden, using species occurrence data from the ...Missing: Finland | Show results with:Finland
[33]
https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/greatlakes/FactSheet.aspx?SpeciesID=2715&Potential=N&Type=0
[34]
Lupinus (Lupine) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
Flower Description: Terminal, elongated clusters, pea-like, blue to purple, pinkish, or white. Blooms in late spring to early summer.
[35]
Lupinus polyphyllus - Nonindigenous Aquatic Species
Native Range: Western parts of North America with an oceanic climate: Canada (British Columbia), United States (Alaska, west Oregon, west Washington, north ...Missing: elevation | Show results with:elevation
[36]
Lupine Flowers: Planting, Growing, and Caring for Lupines
May 1, 2025 · Plant in cool temperatures; lupine can not tolerate heat, humidity, or drought. Lupine seeds are sown in early spring or in the fall. Many ...
[37]
Lupine Growing Guide - Farmer Bailey
Hardy in USDA zones 4-8; prefers cool-summer climates. Perform best in temperate areas with long, cool springs; may be short-lived or treated as annuals in ...Missing: precipitation | Show results with:precipitation
[38]
[PDF] Roger Lake Research Natural Area - Forest Science Labs
Mar 19, 1997 · surrounding the lake are dominated by sedges and willows and sphagnum bogs. ... Lupinus polyphyllus var. burkei. Lupinus polyphyllus var.
[39]
Foraging patterns and efficiency on Lupinus polyphyllus | Oecologia
Lupinus polyphyllus, which produces no nectar, has more pollen available in upper flowers. Although bees are probably unable to detect this gradient, since ...
[40]
[PDF] How Lupines Talk to Bees - Montana Native Plant Society
Okay, so who cares? Bumblebees care, and they are lupine's principal pollinators. Lupines provide lots of pollen but no nectar. Bumblebees collect the ...
[41]
Lupine (Lupinus spp.) - Poisonous Plant Research - USDA ARS
Jun 26, 2018 · Lupine hay remains toxic and has been reported to poison sheep. More common than direct toxicity, some lupine alkaloids produce birth defects ...Missing: polyphyllus herbivory
[42]
Lupine Season! | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
The decline in wild lupine is said to be causing the decline of the Karner blue butterfly. Human development and habitat fragmentation of wild lupine correlates ...
[43]
A Commercial Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Inoculum Alleviated the ... - NIH
May 15, 2023 · Lupinus species have been sporadically reported to be colonized by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The interactions between AMF and lupine ...
[44]
How to Grow Lupins | BBC Gardeners World Magazine
Jun 6, 2025 · These grey aphids can form large colonies and gradually weaken the plant. Birds and other predators should manage aphid infestations ...
[45]
https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10573/lupinus-polyphyllus/details
[46]
[PDF] Indiana Plants Poisonous to Livestock and Pets - Purdue University
SIGNS: Toxicity in lupine is believed to result primarily from the alkaloid D-lupanine. The signs of lupine poisoning can develop within an hour or may take ...
[47]
Lupinus polyphyllus|bigleaf lupin/RHS Gardening
Lupinus polyphyllus. bigleaf lupin. Strong, upright, deciduous perennial to 1.5m tall, producing a mound of large, long-stalked mid-green leaves divided ...
[48]
(PDF) Nitrogenase Activity, Nitrogen Fixation, and Nitrogen Inputs by ...
(1985) estimated the combined rates of N fixation by nodulated Lupinus argenteus and asymbiotic bacteria in litter to be <0.3 kg N ha −1 year −1 , with fixation ...
[49]
[PDF] breeding of perennial fodder forms of multifoliate lupin (lupinus ...
ABSTRACT. The aim of the work was to develop methods to create fodder (sweet) varieties of Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl, with stable, low levels of alkaloids.
[50]
[PDF] Towards breeding of edible perennial lupins for Swedish conditions
Jun 14, 2024 · ... low alkaloid fodder lupin adapted to the Ukraine. 'Pervenec', a semi-sweet cultivar adapted to northwest Russia. 'Pushkinsky', a bitter ...
[51]
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10530-021-02652-y
[52]
[PDF] alaska non-native plant invasiveness ranking form
Many Lupinus species, including Lupinus polyphyllus, contain alkaloids that are toxic to animals (DiTomaso and. Healy 2007, Fremstad 2010). 2. Biological ...Missing: taxonomy | Show results with:taxonomy
[53]
The invasive herb Lupinus polyphyllus can reduce plant species ...
Oct 28, 2021 · Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. (Fabaceae) is a short-lived perennial nitrogen-fixing herb, native to western areas of North America (Fremstad 2010).
[54]
[PDF] The impact of the invasive Garden lupine (Lupinus polyphyllus) on ...
Jan 14, 2021 · Invasion of non-native species has been recognized as the second largest (after loss of habitat and landscape fragmentation) threat to global ...
[55]
Invasive plant Lupinus polyphyllus demonstrates high level ... - Nature
Apr 29, 2025 · The native range of L. polyphyllus occupies the west of North America – Canada (British Columbia) and USA (Alaska, western Oregon and Washington ...
[56]
Russell lupin – BRaided Rivers New Zealand
Russell lupin is an aggressive exotic weed that smothers riverbeds, restricts water flow, and provides cover for predators, impacting birds.
[57]
Vascular plant diversity in Swedish road verges of high conservation ...
Dec 12, 2024 · We found that L. polyphyllus reduced species richness and diversity of plant communities in road verges. However, we found that even though the ...
[58]
Impact of Lupinus polyphyllus on native biodiversity
It is invasive in a number of EPPO countries as well as Australia and New Zealand. Lupinus polyphyllus can form dense stands (70% cover) and thrive in a ...
[59]
Production and Utilization of Lupinus spp. - IntechOpen
Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl.) also originates in America; more specifically ... of germinating seeds, specifically 80 to 100 germinating seeds per m2.
[60]
Linking nutrient dynamics and phenology in Lupinus polyphyllus to ...
Climatically, the region is part of the temperate climate zone ... Annual precipitation was 440 mm, compared to the 30-year normal of 725 mm ...
[61]
[PDF] THE BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF RUSSELL LUPIN IN RIVERBEDS ...
We report here on our search to identify potential pathogens, present within New. Zealand, and suitable for use in an inundative biological control programme ...Missing: eradication | Show results with:eradication
[62]
The Great Lupine Combat day. The traditionalization of eradication ...
Aug 27, 2024 · This article analyzes 'The Great Lupine Combat Day', to show how the lifecycle of plants and culturally imbued actions and preferences interact.
[63]
Community effort to protect native habitat from iconic pest plant
Aug 12, 2024 · A conservation group in the Lindis Pass has been awarded funding to help eradicate Russell lupins – a revered weed that is destroying our ...
[64]
bigleaf lupine - Minnesota Seasons
Conservation Status ; IUCN Red List. not listed ; NatureServe. N4N5 - Apparently Secure to Secure. SNR - Unranked ; Minnesota. not listed ...
[65]
Large-leaved lupine (Lupinus polyphyllus) - iNaturalist
Lupinus polyphyllus (large-leaved lupine, big-leaved lupine, many-leaved lupine or, primarily in cultivation, garden lupin) is a species of lupine (lupin) ...
[66]
(PDF) Invasive plant Lupinus polyphyllus demonstrates high level of ...
Aug 6, 2025 · Invasive plant Lupinus polyphyllus demonstrates high level of molecular genetic variation within and between populations at East European Plain.
[67]
Lupine does not belong to Finnish nature - we will remove it as a ...
Sep 20, 2024 · In 2019, lupine and rose were added to the national list of harmful alien species. It means that growing them is prohibited and the growths must ...
[68]
Lupinus polyphyllus | Invasive alien species
Do not buy or grow this invasive alien species. Ordering garden lupin online is also prohibited. Garden lupin cannot be handed over. Eradicate any invasive ...