During the Garden Lupine’s two centuries of presence in Sweden, its apprehension has been marked by cultural reconfigurations–from an appreciated garden plant, through being a token for Swedish midsummer to being deemed an invasive alien species and ecological threat. With the purpose of deepening the understanding of how environmental management works as a nexus of nature and culture, this article analyzes ‘The Great Lupine Combat Day’, to show how the lifecycle of plants and culturally imbued actions and preferences interact. By employing ethnographic methods and qualitative source material to enable a cultural analysis of the traditionalization of eradicating invasive species, the article shows how this annual event ties together an established annual calendar, the life cycle and visuality of plants, biodiversity crises, an idealized aesthetics feature of Swedish nature, and eradication practices. In essence, the management of the Garden Lupine serves as a reminder of how nature is always culture.

This article examines the concept of materiality in the context of public aquariums, drawing upon the theoretical framework of relational materialism as proposed by John Law. The author examines the manner in which aquariums facilitate the production and shaping of knowledge about nature and the environment, and how this is influenced by a range of ordering processes, including technological advancements, scientific knowledge, and popular culture. The article emphasises the necessity of considering the materiality of aquariums, encompassing the physical environment, the animals themselves, and the narratives presented to visitors. The author posits that aquariums are not merely passive displays of nature; rather, they are active producers of knowledge and meaning. Furthermore, the article examines the concept of “popular science animals,” which refers to the manner in which specific animals are presented in a manner that is both scientifically accurate and engaging for a broad audience. The author examines the manner in which this concept is employed in aquariums to engender a sense of wonder and curiosity among visitors. In general, the article provides a nuanced understanding of the intricate relationships between humans, animals, and the environment in the context of public aquariums. It emphasises the significance of considering the materiality of these spaces and the ways in which they shape our understanding of the natural world.