The Orkney Image Library
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Paul writes:
'Lupins opposite the Harray Stores in the late thirties. I'm told they were a mixture of purple/blue and white (anyone have a colour photo of them?) This picture was taken by a Kirkwall photographer called Thomson and was, I believe, used on a calendar. The little girl is my late mother, Pam.'
Picture added on 30 June 2006
I know the field well: it is just below the farm where I was born - Cuppin. There were still lupins there in the 60s, but grazing put paid to them. Pity! There are still patches of the lupin around the county, though.
Added by John Moar on 19 October 2011
They tell me lupins are self destructive. they put a substance in the ground as they grow thet makes the ground unsuitable for them to grow. A bit stupid really.
Added by W Watters on 19 October 2011
I read that lupins were introduced to Orkney to improve the soil fertility. Does anyone know where they still grow in Orkney from the original crops rather than gardens? I'd love to gather some seeds.
Added by Yvonne on 09 January 2012
There used to be the odd clump of lupins alongside the B9056 road, a little south of the turn-off sigposted 'Howe'. Not sure if they're still there or, indeed, whether they are a true remnant of the 'original crops'. Someone may know.
Added by Ian Hourston on 12 January 2012
It may be that the soil in Orkney is just too good for it! It grows well on eroded soils, scree and river shingle and outcompetes other species there. It has even become invasive in parts of Iceland for that reason. Here, though, other plants can meet the challenge.
Added by John Moar on 16 January 2012
Thanks, I'll have to see if I can spot them.
Added by Yvonne on 09 February 2012
I seem to remember a clump on a minor road near the Rendall Doocot as well.
Added by John Moar on 09 February 2012
Thank you for the Harray Lupins. A colour picture would be spectacular!
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Added by Meg Gibson on 25 January 2016
Harray
