Bigleaf lupine

Bigleaf lupine or large-leaved lupine (Lupinus polyphyllus) is a showy wildflower native to Western North America. 

It's been planted in many home gardens and has since escaped cultivation, spreading in the wild. It's most commonly seen on Minnesota's north shore. While there is wild lupine (Lupinus perennis), a species native to Minnesota, wild lupine's natural range is typically limited to southeastern and east central parts of the state.

In Minnesota, bigleaf lupine is most commonly seen in partly shady or sunny uplands, fields, or roadsides. Currently, it's not considered a noxious weed in Minnesota, but it does pose a threat to ecosystems by outcompeting native plants and wildflowers. The endangered Karner blue butterfly, a rare species in Minnesota, can only grow on the native wild lupine. So confidently identifying lupine is critical. 

Help the University of Minnesota and natural resources managers track the spread of 'escaped' bigleaf lupine by learning how to identify and report it below.

Tracking the location of certain species helps keep natural resources managers informed and allows for proactive management. 

Report any sightings of 'escaped' plants, or those that have moved from home landscapes into natural areas, to EDDMapS.org. 

Please include photos when entering reports.

Watch this 2:11 minute video to learn how to report to EDDMapS.