Species PlantsWild Blue Lupine

Wild Blue Lupine

Lupinus perennis

UncommonPlant
Illustration of Wild Blue Lupine (Lupinus perennis)

Wild Blue Lupine is a striking native wildflower of sandy, acidic soils in the northeastern and midwestern United States, producing tall spikes of blue-to-purple pea flowers. It is the exclusive larval host plant for the Karner blue butterfly, an endangered species. Its populations have declined significantly with the loss of sandplain habitats.

Habitat
Sandy, acidic soils in pine barrens, oak savannas, and open woods
Diet
Sole larval host for endangered Karner blue butterfly; bumblebees pollinate
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Wild Blue Lupine

The best time to see a Wild Blue Lupine is May–June, when about 70% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 10,550 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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