Lupin fields along Iceland's south coast

What it is

The Nootka lupin comes from Alaska and the Pacific north-west. It was brought to Iceland in 1945 to hold loose volcanic soil and add nitrogen to it, in a country that had lost much of its plant cover. It did the job very well, and then kept spreading. From mid June to late July it turns roadsides, river plains and black sand purple, with the church at Vík a much photographed spot. Icelanders are divided about it. Some value the colour and the restored soil. Others see an invasive plant crowding out low native mosses and heath.

Before you go

• Late June and early July are the most reliable weeks in the south.
• Pull off only at proper lay-bys. Stopping on the ring road is dangerous.
• Do not carry seed heads elsewhere. The plant spreads easily enough already.

The flowers you will see

Nootka lupineA blue-purple lupine from North America, now widespread in IcelandLupinTall, spiky-flowered legumes grown for gardens, food, and soil health

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Nootka lupineA blue-purple lupine from North America, now widespread in Iceland