Tree Lupin
Tree Lupin is a fast-growing shrub originally introduced from California and is now widespread throughout many of New Zealand's coastal environments.
Recognisable by its grey-green leaves and pale yellow, sweetly scented flowers, Lupin can grow up to three metres tall and quickly forms dense stands that outcompete native dune species and alter natural ecosystems.
Flowering Lupin in a sandy coastal environment
While Lupin was historically planted to stabilise dunes, we now understand that it can displace indigenous vegetation and reduce the biodiversity of coastal habitats over time.
One of the reasons Lupin is so difficult to manage is the longevity of its seed. Seeds can remain dormant in the soil for more than 20 years before germinating when conditions are right, meaning long-term management and ongoing monitoring are essential to prevent reinfestation.
At Waikawa Beach, Lupin control forms an important part of our wider dune restoration work, helping create space for native species such as Spinifex, Pīngao and Tauhinu to re-establish and thrive.
Seed pods explode spreading seeds widely