Bluebells
Bluebells are quintessentially English and have even been voted the wildflower emblem of the UK. In fact our country holds almost half the world’s population. These strongly scented, deep violet-blue flowers prefer woody areas, but you’ll also find them on old hedge banks and in bracken-covered pasture. Sadly our native bluebells could become far less common as they are threatened by climate change and hybridisation with Spanish bluebells. To help protect our native bluebells support the local Wildlife Trust and other organisations that look after bluebell woods.
Primroses
At the end of their flowering period, you may still see creamy, pale yellow primroses in May.
Yellow archangel
Yellow archangel closely resembles the far more common white dead nettle. These indicators of ancient woods have an almost sulphurous glow. The name ‘archangel’ may refer to the plant’s lack of stinging hairs.
Bugle
Bugle is a member of the mint family and produces spikes of beautiful, purpley-blue flowers. The famous 17th century herbalist, Nicholas Culpeper, recommended a syrup made from bugle for many ailments including ulcers and broken bones.
Woodruff
Woodruff is known for its pleasant, hay-like smell when dried. It has been used in potpourri and snuff, for stuffing mattresses and as bunches to keep linen and clothes smelling sweet. The ‘ruff’ part of its name probably refers to the whorled arrangement of the leaves on the stem.
Early purple orchid
One of our commonest orchids, the early purple orchid grows in a range of sites from woods to downs to sea-cliffs. The glossy green leaves are marked with dark blotches (but can’t be seen in this photo).
Brambles
Brambles, or blackberry bushes, have a long flowering season – from May through to September. The flowers provide nectar and pollen for a huge range of insects.
Herb Robert
Herb Robert, with its pretty pink flowers, is a straggly plant that is common across Britain. It is often considered a weed in gardens.
Speedwell
There are several common speedwells with confusingly similar flowers. Often a hand lens and floral key is needed to distinguish them.