The Lupine plant, particularly the wild Blue Lupine (Lupinus perennis), plays a vital role in the survival of the endangered Karner blue butterfly. This native wildflower is the only host plant that Karner blue caterpillars can feed on, making it essential for the butterfly's life cycle. Blooming in late spring to early summer, the lupine’s tall, spiky clusters of bluish-purple flowers thrive in sandy, open habitats like pine barrens and savannas. Its deep roots help it withstand dry conditions, and it enriches the soil by fixing nitrogen. Conservation efforts to protect and restore lupine populations are crucial to ensuring the continued existence of the Karner blue butterfly, which depends on this delicate plant for nourishment and reproduction.
This cache is not part of the 2025 NYS Parks Saratoga/Capital District Regional Geocache Challenge. It has been placed for your geocaching pleasure. Enjoy!