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  • MARSH WOUNDWORT Stachys palustris (Lamiaceae) Height to 1m. Robust, non-smelling perennial with creeping stems and unbranched flowering stalks. Grows in damp ground in marshes, and beside ditches and rivers; occasionally found along the margins of damp arable field. FLOWERS are 12-15mm long and pinkish purple with white markings; borne in elegant, open spikes (Jun-Sep). FRUITS are nutlets. LEAVES are toothed, narrow-oblong, often heart-shaped at the base and mostly unstalked. STATUS-Widespread and locally common throughout the region.
    131711.jpg
  • Eared willow Salix aurita (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 2m<br />
Shrubby and much-branched willow. SHOOTS Downy at first, becoming shiny and brown with age. LEAVES Broadly ovate, to 4cm long, with wavy margins and a twisted tip; note the large, leafy stipules (‘ears’) at the leaf base. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Male catkins ovoid and yellow, female catkins greener. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Favours damp, acid soils and common beside moorland and upland streams, and on damp heaths.
    134309.jpg
  • Eared willow Salix aurita (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 2m<br />
Shrubby and much-branched willow. SHOOTS Downy at first, becoming shiny and brown with age. LEAVES Broadly ovate, to 4cm long, with wavy margins and a twisted tip; note the large, leafy stipules (‘ears’) at the leaf base. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Male catkins ovoid and yellow, female catkins greener. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Favours damp, acid soils and common beside moorland and upland streams, and on damp heaths.
    133877.jpg
  • Eared willow Salix aurita (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 2m<br />
Shrubby and much-branched willow. SHOOTS Downy at first, becoming shiny and brown with age. LEAVES Broadly ovate, to 4cm long, with wavy margins and a twisted tip; note the large, leafy stipules (‘ears’) at the leaf base. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Male catkins ovoid and yellow, female catkins greener. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Favours damp, acid soils and common beside moorland and upland streams, and on damp heaths.
    134315.jpg
  • Crack-willow Salix fragilis Salicaceae Height to 25m<br />
Large, domed tree with a thick bole. Bark Grey-brown with criss-crossed ridges. Branches Basal. Shoots Reddish, brightest in spring. Leaves Long, glossy, with toothed margins. Reproductive parts Male catkins yellow and pendulous; female catkins green and pendulous; on separate trees. Status Common in damp habitats.
    133856.jpg
  • CREEPING YELLOW-CRESS Rorippa sylvestris (Brassicaceae) Height to 50cm. Sprawling, sometimes creeping annual of damp, bare ground that has solid, not hollow, stems. FLOWERS are 5mm across with 4 yellow petals, twice as long as sepals; in terminal heads (Jun-Oct). FRUITS are elliptical pods, 8-15mm long. LEAVES are pinnately lobed. STATUS-Locally common in England and Wales; scarce elsewhere.
    132154.jpg
  • HAIRY SEDGE Carex hirta (Cyperaceae) Height to 70cm<br />
Distinctive sedge, recognised by its very hairy leaves. Grows in damp grassland. FLOWERS in inflorescences of 2-3 brown male spikes above 2-3 yellowish female spikes (Apr-Jun). FRUITS are green, beaked and ridged. LEAVES are long, grey-green and covered in long, white hairs. STATUS-Widespread and locally common.
    131036.jpg
  • RAMSONS Allium ursinum (Liliaceae) Height to 35cm<br />
Bulbous perennial that smells strongly of garlic. Grows in damp woodland, mainly on calcareous soils; where conditions suit its needs it often spreads, forming extensive carpets. FLOWERS are 15-20cm across, white and bell-shaped; borne in spherical, terminal clusters on slender, 3-sided and leafless stalks (Apr-May). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are ovate, up to 7cm wide and 25cm long, and all basal. STATUS-Widespread throughout much of the region, and locally abundant.
    130875.jpg
  • HERB-PARIS Paris quadrifolia (Liliaceae) Height to 35cm<br />
Unusual and distinctive perennial that grows in undisturbed damp woodland, often on calcareous soils. FLOWERS are curious and comprise narrow greenish yellow petals and sepals, topped by a dark, purplish ovary and yellow stamens; solitary and terminal (May-Jun). FRUITS are black berries. LEAVES are broad, oval and borne in whorls of 4. STATUS-Widespread throughout much of the region but always extremely local.
    130739.jpg
  • CUCKCOOFLOWER Cardamine pratensis (Brassicaceae) Height to 50cm. Variable perennial of damp, grassy places. Also known as Lady’s-smock. FLOWERS are 12-20mm across with 4 pale lilac or white flowers (Apr-Jun). FRUITS are elongated and beaked. LEAVES are seen mainly in a basal rosette of pinnately divided leaves with rounded lobes; narrow stem leaves also present. STATUS-Widespread and locally common.
    130691.jpg
  • BUTTERBUR Petasites hybridus (Asteraceae) Height to 50cm<br />
Impressive, patch-forming perennial with creeping rhizomes. Grows in damp ground, often beside rivers and ditches. FLOWERS are borne in pinkish red heads with separate sex plants (male flower heads are 7-12mm across, females flower heads are 3-6mm across); carried on impressive and robust spikes, up to 40cm tall, (Mar-May), going over as the leaves appear. FRUITS are achenes. LEAVES are heart-shaped, up to 1m across, and most evident in summer. STATUS-Locally common throughout the region.
    130580.jpg
  • ST PATRICK’S-CABBAGE Saxifraga spathularis (Saxifragaceae) Height to 30cm. Tufted perennial of damp rocky places. FLOWERS are star-shaped and white; the five petals have yellow basal spots and red spots above. Borne on slender stalks (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are dry capsules. LEAVES are spoon-shaped, toothed and stalked; appear as a basal rosette. STATUS- Very locally common in W Ireland and Wicklow.
    122930.jpg
  • Bay Willow - Salix pentandra (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 18m <br />
Broadly domed, open-crowned tree when growing in its typical open streamside habitat, but more slender and upright in woodlands. SHOOTS Olive-green and glossy. LEAVES Glossy green, showing a bluish tint beneath. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS In contrast to other willows, the bright-yellow upright male catkins appear at same time as new growth of leaves, rather than just before them. Female catkins are dull yellowish-green, longer and more pendulous. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION A fairly common native of moorlands, streamsides and boggy areas, and also in damp, upland woods in north of region. Only very occasionally planted as an ornamental tree.
    157442.jpg
  • Bay Willow Salix pentandra (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 18m <br />
Broadly domed, open-crowned tree when growing in its typical open streamside habitat, but more slender and upright in woodlands. SHOOTS Olive-green and glossy. LEAVES Glossy green, showing a bluish tint beneath. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS In contrast to other willows, the bright-yellow upright male catkins appear at same time as new growth of leaves, rather than just before them. Female catkins are dull yellowish-green, longer and more pendulous. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION A fairly common native of moorlands, streamsides and boggy areas, and also in damp, upland woods in north of region. Only very occasionally planted as an ornamental tree.
    134252.jpg
  • Grey Willow Salix cinerea (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 6m <br />
Variable, usually a large shrub or sometimes a small tree with characteristic thick, downy, grey twigs. Represented by ssp. cinerea and ssp. oleifolia (pka S. c. atrocinerea or S. atrocinerea). SHOOTS If bark is peeled off 2-year-old twigs, wood shows a series of fine longitudinal ridges. LEAVES Oblong and pointed, usually about 4 times as long as broad, on short petioles with irregular stipules. Leaves often have inrolled margins and are grey and downy below. Upper surface is matt and downy in ssp. cinerea but glossy and hairless in ssp. oleifolia. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Catkins appear in early spring on separate trees, before leaves: male catkins ovoid and yellow, female catkins similar but greener, eventually releasing finely plumed seeds. This species and Goat Willow S. caprea, are often called ‘Pussy Willow’ when their silky-grey buds, resembling cats’ paws, followed by bright-yellow catkins, appear in spring. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Common across much of our region usually growing in wet habitats such as fenlands, streamsides and damp woodlands
    135414.jpg
  • Alder Buckthorn Frangula alnus Rhamnaceae HEIGHT to 5m.<br />
Sprawling tree. Bark Smooth, grey with vertical furrows. Branches Spreading, twigs with fine hairs. Leaves Ovate, to 7cm long, with entire margins. Reproductive parts Flowers greenish, 5-petalled, 3mm across, in small axillary clusters. Fruits berry-like, 1cm across, green ripening yellow, red then black. Status Locally common on damp, acid soils.
    133200.jpg
  • Red Maple Acer rubrum (Aceraceae) HEIGHT to 23m <br />
Fast-growing, spreading tree with an irregular crown.BARK Grey and smooth. BRANCHES Mostly ascending, but arch outwards. LEAVES To 10cm long and almost as wide, with 3–5 toothed lobes less than half the leaf width; red-tinged above at first, greener later, and silvery below, with a red petiole. Turn various shades of red and yellow in autumn. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS small red flowers in dense clusters on thin pedicels, open in spring before leaves. Males and females are separate. Bright-red winged fruits are about 1cm long, the wings diverging at a narrow angle. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Native of E North America, usually growing in damp habitats, grown here for its autumn foliage.
    132824.jpg
  • Black-poplar Populus nigra ssp. betulifolia (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 32m  Large, spreading tree when fully mature, with a domed crown and thick, blackish, gnarled bole covered with distinctive burrs and tuberous growths. Rather straggly, however, when growing among other trees in woods. SHOOTS And buds are<br />
smooth and golden-brown when young. LEAVES Triangular and long-stalked with a finely toothed margin and are fresh shiny green on both surfaces. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Male catkins are pendulous and reddish, female catkins are greenish. Both appear in April. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Native of our region, preferring heavier soils and damp conditions. Tolerates pollution so sometimes planted in cities. It is known in the north of England as ‘Manchester Poplar’.
    130285.jpg
  • Crack-willow Salix fragilis Salicaceae Height to 25m<br />
Large, domed tree with a thick bole. Bark Grey-brown with criss-crossed ridges. Branches Basal. Shoots Reddish, brightest in spring. Leaves Long, glossy, with toothed margins. Reproductive parts Male catkins yellow and pendulous; female catkins green and pendulous; on separate trees. Status Common in damp habitats.
    119546.jpg
  • Grey Willow Salix cinerea (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 6m <br />
Variable, usually a large shrub or sometimes a small tree with characteristic thick, downy, grey twigs. Represented by ssp. cinerea and ssp. oleifolia (pka S. c. atrocinerea or S. atrocinerea). SHOOTS If bark is peeled off 2-year-old twigs, wood shows a series of fine longitudinal ridges. LEAVES Oblong and pointed, usually about 4 times as long as broad, on short petioles with irregular stipules. Leaves often have inrolled margins and are grey and downy below. Upper surface is matt and downy in ssp. cinerea but glossy and hairless in ssp. oleifolia. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Catkins appear in early spring on separate trees, before leaves: male catkins ovoid and yellow, female catkins similar but greener, eventually releasing finely plumed seeds. This species and Goat Willow S. caprea, are often called ‘Pussy Willow’ when their silky-grey buds, resembling cats’ paws, followed by bright-yellow catkins, appear in spring. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Common across much of our region usually growing in wet habitats such as fenlands, streamsides and damp woodlands
    102363.jpg
  • HEATH SPOTTED-ORCHID Dactylorhiza maculata (Orchidaceae) Height to 50cm. Superficially similar to Common Spotted-orchid but restricted to damp, mostly acid soils on heaths and moors. FLOWERS are usually very pale, sometimes almost white, but with darker streaks and spots; the lower lip is broad and 3-lobed but the central lobe is smaller than the outer 2. Flowers borne in open spikes (May-Aug). FRUITS are egg-shaped. LEAVES are lanceolate and dark-spotted, those at the base being largest and broadest, narrower leaves sheathing the stem. STATUS-Locally common throughout.
    140187.jpg
  • BALM-LEAVED FIGWORT Scrophularia scorodonia (Scrophulariaceae) Height to 70cm. Upright, branched and downy grey perennial with stems that are square and angled. Grows in woodland and on damp flushes on rocky cliffs. FLOWERS are 1cm long and greenish with a maroon upper lip; borne in open spikes (Jun-Sep). FRUITS are greenish capsules, like miniature figs. LEAVES are oval, toothed and wrinkled, with downy hairs on both surfaces. STATUS-Locally common in SW England only.
    133649.jpg
  • SILVERWEED Potentilla anserina (Rosaceae) Creeping<br />
Low-growing perennial with long, creeping stems. Found in damp, grassy places and on bare ground. FLOWERS are 15-20mm across with 5 yellow petals (May-Aug). FRUITS are dry and papery. LEAVES are divided into up to 12 pairs of leaflets (with tiny ones between them) that are covered in silvery, silky hairs. STATUS-Widespread and common.
    132204.jpg
  • MARSH PEA Lathyrus palustris (Fabaceae) Height to 1m<br />
Slender, climbing perennial with winged stems. Found in fens and damp, grassy places on calcareous soils. FLOWERS are 2cm long and pinkish purple; in long-stalked groups of 2-8 flowers (May-Jul). FRUITS are flat pods, 5cm long. LEAVES have 2-5 pairs of narrow leaflets and branched tendrils. STATUS-Extremely local; absent from Scotland.
    131988.jpg
  • MUDWORT Limosella aquatica (Scrophulariaceae) Height to 10cm. Hairless, rosette-forming annual with creeping runners. Grows on damp mud, typically on the margins of drying ponds. FLOWERS are 3-5mm across and bell-shaped with 5 pinkish white lobes; on slender stalks arising from leaf axils (Jun-Oct). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are narrow-ovate and long-stalked. STATUS-Rare, mainly in S.
    131926.jpg
  • COMMON FLEABANE Pulicaria dysenterica (Asteraceae) Height to 50cm. Creeping perennial with upright, branched and woolly flowering stems. Grows in damp meadows and ditches on heavy soils. FLOWERS in heads, 15-30mm across, with spreading yellow ray florets and deeper yellow, central disc florets; arranged in open clusters (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are achenes with a hairy pappus. LEAVES are heart-shaped and clasping on the stem; basal leaves soon wither. STATUS-Common, except in Scotland.
    131858.jpg
  • KNOTTED PEARLWORT Sagina nodosa (Caryophyllaceae) Height to 12cm. Wiry perennial; stems look ‘knotted’ due to clustered arrangement of leaves. Found on damp, sandy soils; often coastal. FLOWERS are white, 5-petalled (petals twice as long as sepals) and 10mm across, with 5 styles (cf Spring Sandwort, pxxx) (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are short and clustered. STATUS-Widespread but local.
    131627.jpg
  • CORKY-FRUITED WATER-DROPWORT Oenanthe pimpinelloides (Apiaceae) Height to 1m. Upright, hairless perennial with solid, ridged stems. Favours damp, grass places, often coastal and particularly on clay soils. FLOWERS are white and borne in terminal, flat-topped umbels, 2-6cm across, with 6-15 rays (May-Aug). FRUITS are cylindrical, with swollen, corky bases. LEAVES are 1- or 2-pinnate with narrow-oval to wedge-shaped leaflets. STATUS-Scarce and local, in S England only.
    131528.jpg
  • BLACK CURRANT Ribes nigrum (Grossulariaceae)  Height to 2m. Deciduous shrub, found in damp woodlands and hedgerows. FLOWERS are greenish, bell-shaped and pendent; in clusters of up to 10 flowers (Apr-May). FRUITS are black berries. LEAVES are rounded, irregularly 5-lobed, stickily hairy and aromatic when bruised. STATUS-Locally common native plant but also widely naturalised.
    131503.jpg
  • COMMON FIGWORT Scrophularia nodosa (Scrophulariaceae) Height to 70cm. Upright, hairless perennial with stems that are solid and square but not winged. Grows in damp woodland and shady places. FLOWERS are 1cm long and greenish with a maroon upper lip, and narrow white borders to the sepal lobes; borne in open spikes (Jun-Sep). FRUITS are greenish capsules, recalling miniature figs. LEAVES are oval and pointed, with sharp teeth. STATUS-Widespread and common, except in N Scotland.
    131432.jpg
  • HOARY WILLOWHERB Epilobium parviflorum (Onograceae) Height to 75cm. Downy perennial. Similar to Great Willowherb but smaller, with non-clasping leaves. Found in damp habitats. FLOWERS are 12mm across with pale pink, notched petals and a 4-lobed stigma (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are pods that contain cottony seeds. LEAVES are broadly oval; upper ones are alternate. STATUS-Widespread and common, except in N.
    131351.jpg
  • AMERICAN WILLOWHERB Epilobium ciliatum (Onograceae) Height to 50cm. Upright perennial; stems have 4 raised lines and spreading, glandular hairs. Found on waste ground and damp, shady places. FLOWERS are 8-10mm across with pink, notched petals and a club-shaped stigma (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are pods that contain cottony seeds. LEAVES are narrow-oval, toothed and short-stalked. STATUS-Introduced but widely naturalised.
    131286.jpg
  • MARSH SPEEDWELL Veronica scutellata (Scrophulariaceae) Height to 20cm. Delicate and downy or hairless perennial with both creeping and upright stems. Grows in damp, often boggy ground, especially on acid soils. FLOWERS are 6-7mm across, the corolla 4-lobed and pale pink or white, with dark lines; borne on stalks in open spikes (Jun-Aug). FRUITS is a flattened, notched capsule that is broader than it is tall. LEAVES are narrow, lanceolate and 2-4cm long. STATUS-Locally common throughout.
    131268.jpg
  • HEMLOCK Conium maculatum (Apiaceae) Height to 2m<br />
Highly poisonous, hairless biennial with hollow, purple-blotched stems and an unpleasant smell when bruised. Found on damp, wayside ground, motorway verges and riversides. FLOWERS are white and borne in umbels that are 2-5cm across (Jun-Jul). FRUITS are globular with wavy ridges. LEAVES are up to 4 times pinnately divided into fine leaflets. STATUS-Widespread and locally common, except in the far N.
    131143.jpg
  • EARLY MARSH-ORCHID Dactylorhiza incarnata (Orchidaceae) Height to 60cm. Orchid of damp meadows, often on calcareous soils, but sometimes on acid ground. FLOWERS are usually flesh-pink, but are creamy white or reddish purple in certain subspecies; 3-lobed lip is strongly reflexed along the mid-line, hence flower is narrow when viewed front-on. Flowers borne in spikes (May-Jun). FRUITS are egg-shaped. LEAVES are yellowish-green, unmarked, narrow-lanceolate and often hooded at the tip. STATUS-Local throughout the region.
    131031.jpg
  • COMMON SEDGE Carex nigra (Cyperaceae) Height to 50cm<br />
Variable, creeping sedge of damp grassland and marshes. Stems are 3-angled and rough at the top. FLOWERS in inflorescences of 1-2 thin male spikes above 1-4 female spikes with black glumes (May-Jun). FRUITS are short-beaked and green grading to blackish. LEAVES are long, narrow and appear in tufts. STATUS-Widespread and common.
    130888.jpg
  • WAVY BITTER-CRESS Cardamine flexuosa (Brassicaceae) Height to 50cm. Similar to Hairy Bitter-cress but taller and with wavy, hairy stems. Favours damp and disturbed ground. FLOWERS are 3-4mm across with 4 white petals (Mar-Sep). FRUITS are curved and barely overtop flowers. LEAVES are pinnately divided with rounded lobes; seen as a basal rosette plus 4-10 stem leaves. STATUS-Widespread and common.
    130622.jpg
  • REMOTE SEDGE Carex remota (Cyperaceae) Height to 60cm<br />
Slender and rather distinctive sedge of damp, shady places. FLOWERS are arranged in an extended inflorescence, 10-20cm long, with widely spaced spikes and long, leafy bracts (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are greenish, egg-shaped and flattened with a short beak. LEAVES are pale green, narrow and rough-edged. STATUS-Widespread and locally common.
    130604.jpg
  • LESSER SKULLCAP Scutellaria minor (Lamiaceae) Height to 15cm. Creeping, square-stemmed and hairless perennial with upright flowering stalks. Grows in damp, grassy places on acid soils. FLOWERS are 6-10mm long and pink with 2 lips, the lower one being marked with purplish spots; borne on leafy, upright stems, mainly towards the top (Jul-Oct). FRUITS are nutlets. LEAVES are lanceolate to oval and typically almost untoothed. STATUS-Widespread and locally common, mainly in S.
    130045.jpg
  • WESTERN MARSH-ORCHID Dactylorhiza majalis (Orchidaceae) Height to 60cm. Robust orchid of damp meadows, often on calcareous soils. FLOWERS are magenta to pinkish purple, with a broad lip, the side lobes of which are broader than prominent central one; in spikes (May-Jul). FRUITS are egg-shaped. LEAVES are elliptical and usually dark-spotted; basal leaves are broad but those on the stem narrower and sheathing. STATUS-Local and mainly coastal in Ireland; very local in W Wales.
    129694.jpg
  • GREAT WILLOWHERB Epilobium hirsutum (Onograceae) Height to 2m. Downy perennial with a round stem. Favours damp habitats such as fens and riverbanks. FLOWERS are 25mm across and pinkish purple with pale centres, and a 4-lobed stigma; in terminal clusters (Jul-Aug). FRUITS are pods that contain cottony seeds. LEAVES are broadly oval, hairy and clasping. STATUS-Widespread and common, except in the N.
    143652.jpg
  • GREAT WILLOWHERB Epilobium hirsutum (Onograceae) Height to 2m. Downy perennial with a round stem. Favours damp habitats such as fens and riverbanks. FLOWERS are 25mm across and pinkish purple with pale centres, and a 4-lobed stigma; in terminal clusters (Jul-Aug). FRUITS are pods that contain cottony seeds. LEAVES are broadly oval, hairy and clasping. STATUS-Widespread and common, except in the N.
    143657.jpg
  • ALLSEED Radiola linoides (Linaceae) Height to 5cm<br />
Low-growing, rather bushy annual found on damp ground, usually on sandy or peaty ground and acid soils. FLOWERS 1-2mm across with tiny white petals; borne in dense terminal clusters (Jul-Aug). FRUITS are globular. LEAVES are oval, 1-veined and borne in opposite pairs. STATUS-Widespread but local, and most common in SW England.
    144216.jpg
  • CROWBERRY Empetrum nigrum (Empetraceae) Height to 10cm. Mat-forming, Heather-like evergreen undershrub with stems that are reddish when young. Found on upland moors on damp, acid ground. FLOWERS are tiny and pinkish, with 6 petals; arise at base of leaves (May-Jun). FRUITS are shiny berries, 5-7mm across, green at first but ripening black in late summer. LEAVES are narrow, shiny and dark green, with inrolled margins. STATUS-Locally common only in N Britain.
    144475.jpg
  • SNOWDROP Galanthus nivalis (Liliaceae) Height to 25cm<br />
Familiar spring perennial that grows in damp woodland. FLOWERS are 15-25cm long and nodding, the 3 outer segments pure white, the inner 3 white with a green patch; solitary and nodding (Jan-Mar). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are grey-green, narrow and all basal. STATUS-Possibly native in S Britain but widely naturalised.
    144591.jpg
  • Corn Crake Crex crex L 27-30cm. Easy to hear (in right locations) but secretive and tricky to see. Sexes are similar. Adult has sandy brown upperparts; dark feather-centres create ‘scaly’ look. Face, throat, breast and belly are blue-grey while flanks are barred chestnut and white. In flight, note chestnut patch on inner wing and dangling legs. Juvenile is greyer than adult. Voice Territorial male utters ceaseless crek-crek, crek-crek… mainly at night. Status Migrant visitor; has declined terribly due to modern farming practises. Now restricted to hay meadows and damp grassland.
    143426.jpg
  • Bay Willow - Salix pentandra (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 18m <br />
Broadly domed, open-crowned tree when growing in its typical open streamside habitat, but more slender and upright in woodlands. SHOOTS Olive-green and glossy. LEAVES Glossy green, showing a bluish tint beneath. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS In contrast to other willows, the bright-yellow upright male catkins appear at same time as new growth of leaves, rather than just before them. Female catkins are dull yellowish-green, longer and more pendulous. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION A fairly common native of moorlands, streamsides and boggy areas, and also in damp, upland woods in north of region. Only very occasionally planted as an ornamental tree.
    157482.jpg
  • Bay Willow - Salix pentandra (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 18m <br />
Broadly domed, open-crowned tree when growing in its typical open streamside habitat, but more slender and upright in woodlands. SHOOTS Olive-green and glossy. LEAVES Glossy green, showing a bluish tint beneath. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS In contrast to other willows, the bright-yellow upright male catkins appear at same time as new growth of leaves, rather than just before them. Female catkins are dull yellowish-green, longer and more pendulous. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION A fairly common native of moorlands, streamsides and boggy areas, and also in damp, upland woods in north of region. Only very occasionally planted as an ornamental tree.
    157478.jpg
  • Heath Spotted-orchid - Dactylorhiza maculata (Orchidaceae) Height to 50cm. Superficially similar to Common Spotted-orchid but restricted to damp, mostly acid soils on heaths and moors. FLOWERS are usually very pale, sometimes almost white, but with darker streaks and spots; the lower lip is broad and 3-lobed but the central lobe is smaller than the outer 2. Flowers borne in open spikes (May-Aug). FRUITS are egg-shaped. LEAVES are lanceolate and dark-spotted, those at the base being largest and broadest, narrower leaves sheathing the stem. STATUS-Locally common throughout.
    155437.jpg
  • Bog Pimpernel - Anagallis tenella (Primulaceae) Creeping<br />
Delicate and attractive hairless perennial; has trailing stems and sometimes forms mats. Found on damp ground, such as bogs and dune slacks, and mainly on acid soils. FLOWERS are up to 1cm long, pink and funnel-shaped with 5 lobes; borne on slender, upright stalks (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are rounded, short-stalked and borne in opposite pairs.
    155451.jpg
  • Cross-leaved heath - Erica tetralix (Ericaceae) Height to 30cm. Downy, grey-green undershrub that favours damp, acid soils. It is the characteristic plant of the waterlogged margins of many heathland and moorland bogs. FLOWERS are 6-7mm long, rather globular and pink; borne in rather compact, terminal and 1-sides clusters (Jun-Oct). FRUITS are downy capsules. LEAVES are narrow, fringed with hairs and borne in whorls of 4 along the stems. STATUS-Widespread and locally common throughout the region, but always in wetter locations than Ling or Bell Heather.
    155456.jpg
  • Cross-leaved heath - Erica tetralix (Ericaceae) Height to 30cm. Downy, grey-green undershrub that favours damp, acid soils. It is the characteristic plant of the waterlogged margins of many heathland and moorland bogs. FLOWERS are 6-7mm long, rather globular and pink; borne in rather compact, terminal and 1-sides clusters (Jun-Oct). FRUITS are downy capsules. LEAVES are narrow, fringed with hairs and borne in whorls of 4 along the stems. STATUS-Widespread and locally common throughout the region, but always in wetter locations than Ling or Bell Heather.
    155457.jpg
  • Round-leaved Crowfoot - Ranunculus omiophyllus (Ranunculaceae) Floating. Creeping annual or biennial. Favours damp, muddy places, often water seepages. FLOWERS are 8-12mm across and comprise 5 white petals, twice as long as sepals (May-Aug). FRUITS are borne in rounded heads. LEAVES are lobed and rounded.
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  • Dark-leaved Willow Salix myrsinifolia (pka S. nigricans) (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 4m. Branched, shrubby willow. SHOOTS Downy at first, becoming smoother and dull brown with age. LEAVES Ovate, to 7cm long, dark green above but glaucous below; note toothed margin and large stipules. Leaves turn black when dried. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Males catkins are ovoid and yellow, female catkins are greener. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Native, favouring damp, stony and rocky ground. A northern and upland species.
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  • Purple Willow Salix purpurea (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 6m<br />
Spreading shrub or small tree. BARK Grey and shiny. SHOOTS Shiny and reddish purple when young. LEAVES Elongate ovate, broadest towards the blunt tip and up to 12cm long; hairless, the margin toothed only near the tip. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Male catkins are golden-yellow with reddish purple anthers. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Native, widespread but rather local; absent from, or scarce in, SE England, W Britain and the Scottish Highlands. Grows in damp ground, beside rivers and ponds and in marshes
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  • Almond Willow Salix triandra (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 10m <br />
Small tree or untidy shrub. BARK Smooth, flaking off in small patches. SHOOTS Greenish or reddish-brown and terminate in brown, ovoid, smooth buds. LEAVES Ovate, up to 10cm long, with a serrated margin and pointed tip, usually smooth, hairless, and a dark glossy green. The petiole to 1.5cm long and smooth. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Catkins usually appear at the same time as the leaves on short leafy shoots and are erect and cylindrical. Male catkins up to 5cm long and greenish-yellow, remaining on tree for some time. Female catkins shorter and more compact. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Native, widespread in southern England but becoming scarce further north and west. Grows in damp ground, often beside rivers and ponds or in marshes.
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  • Aspen Populus tremulus Salicaceae Height to 18m. Slender tree with a rounded crown. Suckers readily. Bark Ridged and fissured with age. Leaves Rounded to oval, with shallow marginal teeth, palest below; rustle in the slightest breeze and turn golden in autumn. Reproductive parts Reddish male catkins and greenish female catkins on different trees. Status Common on poor, damp soils.
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  • White Willow Salix alba Salicaceae Height to 25m<br />
Broadly columnar tree. Bark Dark grey. Shoots Yellowish grey, downy at first. Leaves Blue-grey. Reproductive parts Male catkins small and ovoid. Female catkins longer and green. Status Common in damp, lowland habitats.
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  • Aspen Populus tremulus Salicaceae Height to 18m. Slender tree with a rounded crown. Suckers readily. Bark Ridged and fissured with age. Leaves Rounded to oval, with shallow marginal teeth, palest below; rustle in the slightest breeze and turn golden in autumn. Reproductive parts Reddish male catkins and greenish female catkins on different trees. Status Common on poor, damp soils.
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  • Black-poplar Populus nigra ssp. betulifolia (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 32m  Large, spreading tree when fully mature, with a domed crown and thick, blackish, gnarled bole covered with distinctive burrs and tuberous growths. Rather straggly, however, when growing among other trees in woods. SHOOTS And buds are<br />
smooth and golden-brown when young. LEAVES Triangular and long-stalked with a finely toothed margin and are fresh shiny green on both surfaces. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Male catkins are pendulous and reddish, female catkins are greenish. Both appear in April. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Native of our region, preferring heavier soils and damp conditions. Tolerates pollution so sometimes planted in cities. It is known in the north of England as ‘Manchester Poplar’.
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  • Alder Buckthorn Frangula alnus Rhamnaceae HEIGHT to 5m.<br />
Sprawling tree. Bark Smooth, grey with vertical furrows. Branches Spreading, twigs with fine hairs. Leaves Ovate, to 7cm long, with entire margins. Reproductive parts Flowers greenish, 5-petalled, 3mm across, in small axillary clusters. Fruits berry-like, 1cm across, green ripening yellow, red then black. Status Locally common on damp, acid soils.
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  • Bay Willow Salix pentandra (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 18m <br />
Broadly domed, open-crowned tree when growing in its typical open streamside habitat, but more slender and upright in woodlands. SHOOTS Olive-green and glossy. LEAVES Glossy green, showing a bluish tint beneath. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS In contrast to other willows, the bright-yellow upright male catkins appear at same time as new growth of leaves, rather than just before them. Female catkins are dull yellowish-green, longer and more pendulous. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION A fairly common native of moorlands, streamsides and boggy areas, and also in damp, upland woods in north of region. Only very occasionally planted as an ornamental tree.
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  • ST PATRICK’S-CABBAGE Saxifraga spathularis (Saxifragaceae) Height to 30cm. Tufted perennial of damp rocky places. FLOWERS are star-shaped and white; the five petals have yellow basal spots and red spots above. Borne on slender stalks (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are dry capsules. LEAVES are spoon-shaped, toothed and stalked; appear as a basal rosette. STATUS- Very locally common in W Ireland and Wicklow.
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  • FALSE FOX SEDGE Carex otrubae (Cyperaceae) Height to 80cm. Tufted perennial of damp, grassy ground, growing mainly on heavy soils. Stems are robust, rough and 3-sided. FLOWERS are greenish brown and in a dense head with long bracts (Jun-Jul). FRUITS are smooth, beaked and ribbed. LEAVES are stiff, upright and 5-10mm wide. STATUS-Widespread but locally common only in S England.
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  • SWEET CICELY Myrrhis odorata (Apiaceae) Height to 1.5m<br />
Upright, downy perennial with hollow stems. Whole plant smells of aniseed when bruised. Favours grassland and damp ground, often near habitation. FLOWERS are white, with unequal petals, and borne in umbels up to 5cm across (May-Jun). FRUITS are elongated and ridged. LEAVES are fern-like, up to 30cm long and 2- or 3-pinnate; note the basal sheaths. STATUS-Introduced and naturalised, mainly N England and Scotland.
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  • Horse-radish Armoracia rusticana Height to 1.5m<br />
Upright, hairless perennial. Leaves are narrowly oval, long-stalked and up to 30cm long. Flowers are white and 8-9mm across with 4 petals; borne in leafy spikes, May-July. Status-Widespread and locally common, naturalised on damp ground.
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  • MOSSY STONECROP Crassula tillaea (Crassulaceae) Prostrate. Tiny, often reddish annual that is easily overlooked. Found on bare and usually damp sandy soil and gravel. FLOWERS are tiny, whitish and arise from leaf axils (Jun-Sep). FRUITS are dry and splitting. LEAVES are 1-2mm long, oval and densely crowded on the slender stems. STATUS-Extremely local, mainly in S and E England.
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  • Alpine Sow-thistle Cicerbita alpina Height to 80cm<br />
Showy perennial of damp rocky ground. FLOWERS are borne in heads with bluish-purple florets; heads are carried in branched, terminal clusters (Jul-Sep). LEAVES are lobed. Status-Very rare, restricted to a few locations in Scottish mountains.
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  • American Skunk Cabbage Lysichiton americanus Height to 15cm Perennial member of Arum family. Smells strongly of ‘skunk’ when in flower. Leaves are up to 80cm long, broad and inrolled at first. Flower comprise a bright yellow spathe and spike-like green spadix. Status Introduced to Britain from North America (mainly as a naturalised garden escape). Now widespread but local in damp woodland.
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  • DEVIL’S-BIT SCABIOUS Succisa pratensis (Dipsacaceae) Height to 75cm. Upright perennial with hairy or hairless stems. Grows in damp grassland, woodland rides and marshes. FLOWERS are pinkish lilac to violet blue with projecting anthers (like tiny mallets); borne in dense, domed terminal heads, 15-25mm across, on long, slender stalks (Jun-Oct). FRUITS are dry and papery. LEAVES are spoon-shaped at the base of the plant, and narrow on the stem. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
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  • BOG PIMPERNEL Anagallis tenella (Primulaceae) * Creeping<br />
Delicate and attractive hairless perennial; has trailing stems and sometimes forms mats. Found on damp ground, such as bogs and dune slacks, and mainly on acid soils. FLOWERS are up to 1cm long, pink and funnel-shaped with 5 lobes; borne on slender, upright stalks (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are rounded, short-stalked and borne in opposite pairs. STATUS-Widespread and locally common in W but scarce in E.
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  • SQUARE-STALKED ST JOHN’S-WORT Hypericum tetrapterum (Clusiaceae) Height to 1m. Upright, hairless perennial. Similar to Imperforate St John’s-wort but the square stems are distinctly winged. Found in damp ground. FLOWERS are 2cm across with yellow petals and undotted, pointed sepals (Jun-Sep). FRUITS are dry capsules. LEAVES are oval with translucent dots. STATUS-Widespread and locally common, except in the N.
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  • CREEPING YELLOW-CRESS Rorippa sylvestris (Brassicaceae) Height to 50cm. Sprawling, sometimes creeping annual of damp, bare ground that has solid, not hollow, stems. FLOWERS are 5mm across with 4 yellow petals, twice as long as sepals; in terminal heads (Jun-Oct). FRUITS are elliptical pods, 8-15mm long. LEAVES are pinnately lobed. STATUS-Locally common in England and Wales; scarce elsewhere.
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  • NODDING BUR-MARIGOLD Bidens cernua (Asteraceae) Height to 70cm. Similar to Trifid Bur-marigold but with hairy stems. Grows in damp ground and shallow water. FLOWERS in nodding heads, 15-30mm across with yellow disc florets and 5-8 leaf-like bracts below (Jul-Oct). FRUITS are narrow and flattened with 3-4 barbed bristles. LEAVES are lanceolate, unstalked and undivided. STATUS-Locally common in S.
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  • SAW-WORT Serratula tinctoria (Asteraceae) Height to 75cm<br />
Slender, hairless and spineless perennial with grooved and rather stiff stems. Grows in damp meadows and along woodland rides. FLOWERS are borne in heads, 15-20mm long, that comprise pinkish purple florets and close-pressed purplish bracts; heads are carried in open, terminal clusters (Jul-Oct). FRUITS have unbranched pappus hairs. LEAVES vary from undivided to deeply lobed, but the edges are always saw-toothed. STATUS-Locally common only in SW England; scarce or absent elsewhere.
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  • GIPSYWORT Lycopus europaeus (Lamiaceae) Height to 75cm<br />
Hairy, usually somewhat branched, and superficially mint-like perennial. Grows in damp ground and beside fresh water, favouring locations such as ditches and pond margins. FLOWERS are 5mm long and whitish with small, purplish spots; borne in compact whorls that arise from the axils of the upper leaves (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are nutlets. LEAVES are yellowish green and deeply cut or pinnately divided into lobes. STATUS-Widespread and common in central and S England but scarce or absent elsewhere.
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  • GREAT BURNET Sanguisorba officinalis (Rosaceae) Height to 1m. Elegant, hairless perennial of damp grassland and riverbanks. FLOWERS are tiny and reddish purple; borne in dense, ovoid heads on long stalks (Jun-Sep). FRUITS are dry and papery. LEAVES are pinnately divided and comprise 3-7 pairs of oval, toothed leaflets. STATUS-Local and declining, and common only in C and N England.
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  • PEPPER-SAXIFRAGE Silaum silaus (Apiaceae) Height to 1m<br />
Slender, hairless perennial with solid, ridged stems. Found in meadows on damp, heavy soils. FLOWERS are yellowish and borne in long-stalked umbels, 2-6cm across (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are egg-shaped and ridged. LEAVES are 2- to 4-pinnate with narrow, pointed leaflets. STATUS-Locally common in England but scarce or absent elsewhere.
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  • MARSH SPEEDWELL Veronica scutellata (Scrophulariaceae) Height to 20cm. Delicate and downy or hairless perennial with both creeping and upright stems. Grows in damp, often boggy ground, especially on acid soils. FLOWERS are 6-7mm across, the corolla 4-lobed and pale pink or white, with dark lines; borne on stalks in open spikes (Jun-Aug). FRUITS is a flattened, notched capsule that is broader than it is tall. LEAVES are narrow, lanceolate and 2-4cm long. STATUS-Locally common throughout.
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  • WATER-PEPPER Persicaria hydropiper (Polygonaceae) Height to 70cm. Upright, branched annual, characteristic of damp, bare ground such as winter-wet ruts, and shallow water. FLOWERS are pale pink and borne in long spikes that droop at the tip (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are small and nut-like. LEAVES are narrow and oval, with a peppery taste when chewed. STATUS-Widespread and common, except in the N.
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  • TRIFID BUR-MARIGOLD Bidens tripartita (Asteraceae) Height to 60cm. Branched, almost hairless annual with reddish stems. Grows in damp ground and shallow water. FLOWERS in heads, 10-25mm across, with yellow disc florets (no ray florets) and 5-8 leaf-like bracts below (Jul-Oct). FRUITS are oblong and flattened with 1 barbed bristle. LEAVES are stalked and 3-lobed. STATUS-Locally common only in S.
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  • PENNYROYAL Mentha pulegium (Height to 30cm) is mint-scented, creeping and downy perennial with upright flowering stems carrying discrete whorls of mauve flowers (Aug-Oct). It grows in damp, grazed ground beside ponds and the New Forest is the best place in the region to see the species.
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  • YELLOW LOOSESTRIFE Lysimachia vulgaris (Primulaceae) Height to 1m. Softly hairy perennial of damp grassland, and often found beside rivers and in fens. FLOWERS are 15-20mm across and yellow, with 5 pointed lobes; borne in terminal heads (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are narrow, ovate and borne in whorls of 3 or 4; often adorned with black dots. STATUS-Widespread and locally common throughout.
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  • TUFTED HAIR-GRASS Deschampsia cespitosa Height to 1.5m<br />
Tufted, clump-forming perennial of damp grassland, woodland rides and marshes. FLOWERS are borne in a long-stemmed inflorescence comprising spreading clusters of 2-flowered, silvery purple spikelets (Jun-Jul). FRUITS are small, dry nutlets. LEAVES are dark green, wiry and narrow with rough edges. STATUS-Widespread and common.
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  • PERENNIAL SOW-THISTLE Sonchus arvensis (Asteraceae) Height to 2m. Impressive perennial that grow in damp, grassy places and on disturbed ground. Broken stems exude a milky sap. FLOWERS are borne in heads, 4-5cm across, with yellow florets; heads are carried in branched, umbel-like clusters (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are ribbed and flattened with feathery pappus hairs forming a ‘clock’. LEAVES are narrow, shiny, dark green above and greyish below, with pinnate lobes and soft marginal spines; clasping, rounded auricles at base. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
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  • CHICKWEED WILLOWHERB Epilobium alsiniflium (Onograceae) Height to 20cm. Branched and usually upright perennial that is almost hairless. Found damp ground in uplands. FLOWERS are 8-11mm across, pinkish purple and seldom open fully; borne on drooping stalks (Jul-Aug). FRUITS are long, green and erect. LEAVES are ovate, short-stalked and slightly toothed. STATUS-Local in mountains from N Wales northwards.
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  • COMMON BUTTERWORT Pinguicula vulgaris (Lentibulariaceae) Height to 15cm. Stickily-hairy carnivorous perennial that grows in bogs and damp flushes. FLOWERS are 12-14mm across, the corolla is violet with a white throat, funnel-shaped with spreading lobes to the lower lip, and a 4-7mm-long spur; borne on slender stems (May-Aug). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are yellow-green, sticky and can trap and digest insects; borne as a basal rosette. STATUS-Widespread and locally common in N and W.
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  • SCOTTISH ASPHODEL Tofieldia pusilla (Liliaceae) Height to 20cm. Upright, delicate and hairless perennial that is easy to overlook. Grows in damp ground and bogs, mainly in mountain regions. FLOWERS are 2-3mm across and greenish white with 3 blunt lobes; borne in dense, rounded spikes on slender stems (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are iris-like and borne in a flat, basal fan. STATUS-Restricted to Scottish Highlands (where it is fairly widespread) and Upper Teesdale.
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  • SNEEZEWORT Achillea ptarmica (Asteraceae) Height to 60cm<br />
Upright and branched or unbranched perennial with stiff, angular stems, the upper parts of which are downy. Grows in damp situations in meadows, and woodland rides and clearings, almost always on acid soils. FLOWERS are borne in heads, 1-2cm across, comprising greenish yellow disc florets and white ray florets; heads are carried in open clusters (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are achenes. LEAVES are narrow, undivided, untoothed and stalkless. STATUS-Locally common throughout the region.
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  • CROWBERRY Empetrum nigrum (Empetraceae) Height to 10cm. Mat-forming, Heather-like evergreen undershrub with stems that are reddish when young. Found on upland moors on damp, acid ground. FLOWERS are tiny and pinkish, with 6 petals; arise at base of leaves (May-Jun). FRUITS are shiny berries, 5-7mm across, green at first but ripening black in late summer. LEAVES are narrow, shiny and dark green, with inrolled margins. STATUS-Locally common only in N Britain.
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  • WILD TEASEL Dipsacus fullonum (Dipsacaceae) Height to 2m<br />
Biennial of damp and disturbed grassland on heavy soils. Stems are angled, with sharp prickles on the angles. FLOWERS are pinkish purple and carried in egg-shaped heads, 6-8cm long, adorned with numerous spiny bracts; borne on tall stems (Jul-Aug). FRUITS are dry, papery and borne in the dry flower heads; popular with Goldfinches. LEAVES are spine-coated and appear as rosettes in the 1st year; in 2nd year, these die back and stem leaves are opposite and joined at the base, the resulting cup collecting water. STATUS-Widespread and common in the S; scarce or absent elsewhere.
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  • SQUARE-STALKED ST JOHN’S-WORT Hypericum tetrapterum (Clusiaceae) Height to 1m. Upright, hairless perennial. Similar to Imperforate St John’s-wort but the square stems are distinctly winged. Found in damp ground. FLOWERS are 2cm across with yellow petals and undotted, pointed sepals (Jun-Sep). FRUITS are dry capsules. LEAVES are oval with translucent dots. STATUS-Widespread and locally common, except in the N.
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  • FEN RAGWORT Senecio paludosus. Height to 2m. A tall, downy perennial of damp soils. Flowers are yellow and 3-4cm across (June-Aug), and the leaves are narrow, lanceolate toothed and 15-20cm long. Rare and restricted to a few fenland sites.
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  • CHAFFWEED Anagallis minima (Primulaceae) Height to 2cm<br />
Tiny and insignificant hairless annual that is easily overlooked. Found in short grass on damp, sandy ground. FLOWERS are minute, pale pink and borne at the bases of the stem leaves (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are spherical and pinkish, like miniature apples. LEAVES are oval and, uniquely among British species, have a black line around the margin of the under surface. STATUS-Widespread but extremely local.
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  • AMERICAN WILLOWHERB Epilobium ciliatum (Onograceae) Height to 50cm. Upright perennial; stems have 4 raised lines and spreading, glandular hairs. Found on waste ground and damp, shady places. FLOWERS are 8-10mm across with pink, notched petals and a club-shaped stigma (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are pods that contain cottony seeds. LEAVES are narrow-oval, toothed and short-stalked. STATUS-Introduced but widely naturalised.
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  • NARROW-LEAVED BIRD’S-FOOT TREFOIL Lotus glaber (Fabaceae) Height to 10cm. Rather upright, hairless perennial of damp grassy places on clay. Similar to Common Bird’s-foot Trefoil but more slender. FLOWERS are 10mm long; borne on relatively short stalks, in heads of 2-4 (May-Aug). FRUITS are slender pods. LEAVES have 5 narrow, pointed leaflets, but appear trifoliate. STATUS-Local, mainly in S.
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  • COMMON MARSH-BEDSTRAW Galium palustre (Rubiaceae) Height to 70cm. Delicate, straggling perennial with rather rough stems. Grows in damp, grassy places. FLOWERS are 3-4mm across, white and 4-petalled; borne in open clusters (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are wrinkled nutlets. LEAVES are narrow, widest towards the tip and not bristle-tipped; in whorls of 4-6. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout the region.
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  • ROUND-LEAVED WINTERGREEN Pyrola rotundifolia (Pyrolaceae) Height to 15cm. Low-growing perennial of damp, calcareous ground including fens and coastal dune slacks. FLOWERS are 8-12mm across, white and bell-shaped; style is S-shaped and protrudes beyond petals (May-Aug). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are rounded, long-stalked and form a basal rosette. STATUS-Local and declining across its range.
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  • BROOKWEED Samolus valerandi (Primulaceae) Height to 12cm. Hairless and pale green perennial. Found on damp ground, usually on saline or calcareous soils. FLOWERS are 2-3mm across with 5 white petals, joined to halfway; in terminal clusters (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are spherical capsules. LEAVES are spoon-shaped; appear mainly as a basal rosette. STATUS-Widespread but local and mainly coastal.
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  • TUFTED FORGET-ME-NOT Myosotis laxa (Boraginaceae) Height to 12cm. Branched perennial that lacks runners. Grows in damp ground. Note the appressed hairs on the stems, leaves and calyx. FLOWERS are 3-4mm across with rounded blue lobes, the calyx having pointed teeth; in clusters (May-Aug). FRUITS are nutlets. Fruit stalks are 2-3 times calyx length. LEAVES are oblong. STATUS-Common and widespread.
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