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  • View across the water meadows in the Chilterns towards Hambleden Village, Buckinghamshire, Uk
    154611.jpg
  • Dawn over the water meadows of Lechlade looking towards Halfpenny Bridge and St Lawrence Church spire, Gloucestershire, Uk
    154528.jpg
  • View across the water meadows in the Chilterns towards Hambleden Village, Buckinghamshire, Uk
    154612.jpg
  • MEADOW SAXIFRAGE Saxifraga granulata (Saxifragaceae) Height to 45cm. Attractive, hairy perennial of grassy meadows, mainly on neutral or basic soils. FLOWERS are 20-30mm across with 5 white petals; borne in open clusters (Apr-Jun). FRUITS are dry capsules. LEAVES are kidney-shaped with blunt teeth; bulbils are produced at leaf axils in autumn. STATUS-Local, commonest in E England.
    137763.jpg
  • MEADOW CRANE’S-BILL Geranium pratense (Geraniaceae) Height to 75cm. Hairy, clump-forming perennial of meadows and verges, mostly on base-rich soils. FLOWERS are 3-3.5cm across with 5 rounded, bluish lilac petals; borne in pairs on stalks (Jun-Aug). FRUITS end in a long ‘beak’. LEAVES are deeply divided into 5-7 jagged lobes. STATUS-Locally common, except in SE England, N Scotland and Ireland.
    131696.jpg
  • MEADOW SAXIFRAGE Saxifraga granulata (Saxifragaceae) Height to 45cm. Attractive, hairy perennial of grassy meadows, mainly on neutral or basic soils. FLOWERS are 20-30mm across with 5 white petals; borne in open clusters (Apr-Jun). FRUITS are dry capsules. LEAVES are kidney-shaped with blunt teeth; bulbils are produced at leaf axils in autumn. STATUS-Local, commonest in E England.
    130783.jpg
  • MEADOW CRANE’S-BILL Geranium pratense (Geraniaceae) Height to 75cm. Hairy, clump-forming perennial of meadows and verges, mostly on base-rich soils. FLOWERS are 3-3.5cm across with 5 rounded, bluish lilac petals; borne in pairs on stalks (Jun-Aug). FRUITS end in a long ‘beak’. LEAVES are deeply divided into 5-7 jagged lobes. STATUS-Locally common, except in SE England, N Scotland and Ireland.
    136596.jpg
  • MEADOW FESCUE Festuca pratensis Height to 1m<br />
Tufted, hairless perennial that grows in damp meadows. FLOWERS are borne in a 1-sided inflorescence with open spikelets carried on unequal, paired branches, the shorter one with a single spikelet (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are small, dry nutlets. LEAVES are flat and 4mm across. STATUS-Widespread and common.
    131568.jpg
  • MEADOW SAXIFRAGE Saxifraga granulata (Saxifragaceae) Height to 45cm. Attractive, hairy perennial of grassy meadows, mainly on neutral or basic soils. FLOWERS are 20-30mm across with 5 white petals; borne in open clusters (Apr-Jun). FRUITS are dry capsules. LEAVES are kidney-shaped with blunt teeth; bulbils are produced at leaf axils in autumn. STATUS-Local, commonest in E England.
    131037.jpg
  • MEADOW FOXTAIL Alopecurus pratensis Height to 1m<br />
Tufted, hairless perennial that grows in meadows and on verges. FLOWERS are borne in smooth, cylindrical, purplish grey heads, 7-9cm long, of 1-flowered spikelets, with pointed glumes and long awns (Apr-Jun). FRUITS are small, dry nutlets. LEAVES are rough, 5-8mm wide with blunt ligules. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    130815.jpg
  • Marbled White Melanargia galathea Wingspan 50mm. Unmistakable meadow butterfly with a rather sluggish flight; feeds on the flowers of knapweeds and thistles. Adult has distinctive black and white patterns on upperwings; pattern is repeated on underwing although markings are subdued and there is an overall yellowish suffusion. Flies July–August. Larva feeds on grasses; strictly nocturnal. Locally common in southeast and central-southern England. Favours undisturbed meadows and downs, often on chalk but also on neutral soils.
    144957.jpg
  • Marbled White Melanargia galathea Wingspan 50mm. Unmistakable meadow butterfly with a rather sluggish flight; feeds on the flowers of knapweeds and thistles. Adult has distinctive black and white patterns on upperwings; pattern is repeated on underwing although markings are subdued and there is an overall yellowish suffusion. Flies July–August. Larva feeds on grasses; strictly nocturnal. Locally common in southeast and central-southern England. Favours undisturbed meadows and downs, often on chalk but also on neutral soils.
    144955.jpg
  • Marbled White Melanargia galathea Wingspan 50mm. Unmistakable meadow butterfly with a rather sluggish flight; feeds on the flowers of knapweeds and thistles. Adult has distinctive black and white patterns on upperwings; pattern is repeated on underwing although markings are subdued and there is an overall yellowish suffusion. Flies July–August. Larva feeds on grasses; strictly nocturnal. Locally common in southeast and central-southern England. Favours undisturbed meadows and downs, often on chalk but also on neutral soils.
    136235.jpg
  • Marbled White Melanargia galathea Wingspan 50mm. Unmistakable meadow butterfly with a rather sluggish flight; feeds on the flowers of knapweeds and thistles. Adult has distinctive black and white patterns on upperwings; pattern is repeated on underwing although markings are subdued and there is an overall yellowish suffusion. Flies July–August. Larva feeds on grasses; strictly nocturnal. Locally common in southeast and central-southern England. Favours undisturbed meadows and downs, often on chalk but also on neutral soils.
    119655.jpg
  • Marbled White - Melanargia galathea - male (top row) - female (bottom row). Wingspan 50mm. Unmistakable meadow butterfly with a rather sluggish flight; feeds on the flowers of knapweeds and thistles. Adult has distinctive black and white patterns on upperwings; pattern is repeated on underwing although markings are subdued and there is an overall yellowish suffusion. Flies July–August. Larva feeds on grasses; strictly nocturnal. Locally common in southeast and central-southern England. Favours undisturbed meadows and downs, often on chalk but also on neutral soils.
    157180.jpg
  • Marbled White Melanargia galathea Wingspan 50mm. Unmistakable meadow butterfly with a rather sluggish flight; feeds on the flowers of knapweeds and thistles. Adult has distinctive black and white patterns on upperwings; pattern is repeated on underwing although markings are subdued and there is an overall yellowish suffusion. Flies July–August. Larva feeds on grasses; strictly nocturnal. Locally common in southeast and central-southern England. Favours undisturbed meadows and downs, often on chalk but also on neutral soils.
    144958.jpg
  • Marbled White Melanargia galathea Wingspan 50mm. Unmistakable meadow butterfly with a rather sluggish flight; feeds on the flowers of knapweeds and thistles. Adult has distinctive black and white patterns on upperwings; pattern is repeated on underwing although markings are subdued and there is an overall yellowish suffusion. Flies July–August. Larva feeds on grasses; strictly nocturnal. Locally common in southeast and central-southern England. Favours undisturbed meadows and downs, often on chalk but also on neutral soils.
    144956.jpg
  • Marbled White Melanargia galathea Wingspan 50mm. Unmistakable meadow butterfly with a rather sluggish flight; feeds on the flowers of knapweeds and thistles. Adult has distinctive black and white patterns on upperwings; pattern is repeated on underwing although markings are subdued and there is an overall yellowish suffusion. Flies July–August. Larva feeds on grasses; strictly nocturnal. Locally common in southeast and central-southern England. Favours undisturbed meadows and downs, often on chalk but also on neutral soils.
    144954.jpg
  • Marbled White Melanargia galathea Wingspan 50mm. Unmistakable meadow butterfly with a rather sluggish flight; feeds on the flowers of knapweeds and thistles. Adult has distinctive black and white patterns on upperwings; pattern is repeated on underwing although markings are subdued and there is an overall yellowish suffusion. Flies July–August. Larva feeds on grasses; strictly nocturnal. Locally common in southeast and central-southern England. Favours undisturbed meadows and downs, often on chalk but also on neutral soils.
    113950.jpg
  • COMMON MEADOW-RUE Thalictrum flavum (Ranunculaceae) Height to 1m. Upright perennial of damp meadows, ditches and fens; favours basic soils. FLOWERS have small petals that drop, but showy, yellow anthers; borne in dense clusters (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are dry and papery. LEAVES are fern-like and pinnately divided 2 or 3 times into toothed lobes. STATUS-Widespread but local, common only in S and E.
    131457.jpg
  • Skylark Alauda arvensis L 18cm. Has nondescript plumage and best known for incessant song, delivered in flight. Sexes are similar. Adult has streaked sandy-brown upperparts and paler underparts; breast is streaked and flushed buff. Short crest is sometimes raised. In flight, note whitish trailing edge to wings and white outer tail feathers. Juvenile is similar but with scaly-looking back. Voice Rapid song comprises trills, whistles and elements of mimicry. Call is a rolling chrrrp. Status Favours grassy habitats including meadows, heaths and arable farmland. Has declined alarmingly, due to changes in farming practises, but still common. Forms flocks outside breeding season; upland breeding birds move to lowlands in winter.
    157717.jpg
  • Skylark Alauda arvensis L 18cm. Has nondescript plumage and best known for incessant song, delivered in flight. Sexes are similar. Adult has streaked sandy-brown upperparts and paler underparts; breast is streaked and flushed buff. Short crest is sometimes raised. In flight, note whitish trailing edge to wings and white outer tail feathers. Juvenile is similar but with scaly-looking back. Voice Rapid song comprises trills, whistles and elements of mimicry. Call is a rolling chrrrp. Status Favours grassy habitats including meadows, heaths and arable farmland. Has declined alarmingly, due to changes in farming practises, but still common. Forms flocks outside breeding season; upland breeding birds move to lowlands in winter.
    156532.jpg
  • Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus L 115-125cm. Our smallest swan. Usually seen in medium-sized flocks comprising family groups. Similar to larger Whooper but separated by noting relatively shorter neck and different bill pattern. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly pure white plumage. Bill is wedge-shaped but proportionately shorter than Whooper; yellow colour typically does not extend beyond start of nostrils and yellow patch is usually rounded, not triangular. Juvenile has grubby buffish grey plumage and dark-tipped pink bill Voice Utters various honking and bugling calls. Status Winter visitor, 10,000+ birds found at traditional sites: flooded grassland, marshy meadows and occasionally arable farmland.
    155080.jpg
  • Dingy Skipper Erynnis tages Wingspan 25mm. The most moth-like of the skippers, with a buzzing flight. Adult has dark grey-brown upperwings; underwings are reddish-brown. Flies May–June. Larva is nocturnal and feeds mainly on Bird’s-foot Trefoil but also related plants. Locally common in England and Wales in meadows and grassy woodland clearings.
    136197.jpg
  • PARSLEY WATER-DROPWORT Oenanthe lachenalii (Apiaceae) Height to 1m. Upright, hairless perennial with solid, ridged stems. Found in damp meadows and marshes; tolerates brackish conditions. FLOWERS are white and borne in terminal umbels, 2-6cm across, with 6-15 rays (Jun-Sep). FRUITS are egg-shaped, ribbed and lack swollen, cocky bases (see next species). LEAVES are 2- or 3-pinnate with narrow to oval, flat leaflets, the whole recalling young, fresh Parsley leaves. STATUS-Locally common (mainly coastal) in England, Wales and Ireland; scarce in Scotland.
    131996.jpg
  • CELERY-LEAVED BUTTERCUP Ranunculus scleratus (Ranunculaceae) Height to 50cm. Yellowish green annual with hollow stems. Favours marshes and wet grazing meadows, often on trampled ground. FLOWERS are 5-10mm across with pale yellow petals; borne in clusters (May-Sep). FRUITS have elongated heads. LEAVES are celery-like and divided into 3 lobes (basal leaves); stem leaves less divided. STATUS-Locally common in S.
    131950.jpg
  • WOOD DOCK Rumex sanguineus (Polygonaceae) Height to 1m. Upright, straggly and branched perennial of grassy woodland rides and shady meadows. FLOWERS are borne in spikes; leafy only at the base (Jun-Aug). FRUITS have a single elongated wart. LEAVES are oval; basal ones are heart-shaped at base, sometimes red-veined and never waisted. STATUS-Widespread and common, mainly absent from Scotland.
    131391.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
  • MARSH-MARIGOLD Caltha palustris (Ranunculaceae) Height to 25cm. Widespread perennial with stout, hollow stems. Found in damp woodland, marshes and wet meadows. FLOWERS are 25-30mm across and comprise 5 petal-like sepals but no petals (Mar-Jul). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are kidney-shaped and shiny, up to 10cm across. STATUS-Widespread and locally common, but range is contracting.
    129712.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
  • Mouse-eared Hawkweed - Pilosella officinarum. Height to 25cm. Variable, hairy perennial. Plant has creeping runners and often forms mats. Stems produce a milky latex when broken. Grows in a wide range of dry, grassy places, from meadows to heaths. FLOWERS are borne in heads, 2-3cm across, with pale yellow florets that have a red stripe below; heads are solitary on leafless stems (May-Oct). FRUITS have unbranched hairs. LEAVES are spoon-shaped, green and hairy above and downy white below; arranged in a basal rosette. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    157366.jpg
  • Marsh-marigold - Caltha palustris. Height to 25cm. Widespread perennial with stout, hollow stems. Found in damp woodland, marshes and wet meadows. FLOWERS are 25-30mm across and comprise 5 petal-like sepals but no petals (Mar-Jul). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are kidney-shaped and shiny, up to 10cm across. STATUS-Widespread and locally common, but range is contracting.
    157355.jpg
  • Essex Skipper Thymelicus lineola Wingspan 25mm. Like the very similar Small Skipper, this species has buzzing flight and visits knapweed and thistle flowers to feed. For certain identification look at the underside to the antennal tips: these are black, not brown. Adult has orange-brown upperwings and orange-buff underwings. Flies June–July. Larva is nocturnal feeds on various grasses. Locally common in meadows in southeast England but easily overlooked.
    156720.jpg
  • Bewick’s Swan - Cygnus columbianus - juvenile. L 115-125cm. Our smallest swan. Usually seen in medium-sized flocks comprising family groups. Similar to larger Whooper but separated by noting relatively shorter neck and different bill pattern. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly pure white plumage. Bill is wedge-shaped but proportionately shorter than Whooper; yellow colour typically does not extend beyond start of nostrils and yellow patch is usually rounded, not triangular. Juvenile has grubby buffish grey plumage and dark-tipped pink bill Voice Utters various honking and bugling calls. Status Winter visitor, 10,000+ birds found at traditional sites: flooded grassland, marshy meadows and occasionally arable farmland.
    133352.jpg
  • Oxeye Daisy - Leucanthemum vulgare (Asteraceae) Height to 60cm. Downy or hairless perennial of dry, grassy meadows and verges, often on disturbed ground. FLOWERS are borne in solitary heads, 30-50mm across, with yellow disc florets and white ray florets (May-Sep). No scales between disc florets. FRUITS are achenes. LEAVES are dark green and toothed; lower leaves are spoon-shaped, stalked and form a rosette, stem leaves are pinnately lobed. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    156824.jpg
  • Oxeye Daisy - Leucanthemum vulgare (Asteraceae) Height to 60cm. Downy or hairless perennial of dry, grassy meadows and verges, often on disturbed ground. FLOWERS are borne in solitary heads, 30-50mm across, with yellow disc florets and white ray florets (May-Sep). No scales between disc florets. FRUITS are achenes. LEAVES are dark green and toothed; lower leaves are spoon-shaped, stalked and form a rosette, stem leaves are pinnately lobed. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    156825.jpg
  • Skylark Alauda arvensis L 18cm. Has nondescript plumage and best known for incessant song, delivered in flight. Sexes are similar. Adult has streaked sandy-brown upperparts and paler underparts; breast is streaked and flushed buff. Short crest is sometimes raised. In flight, note whitish trailing edge to wings and white outer tail feathers. Juvenile is similar but with scaly-looking back. Voice Rapid song comprises trills, whistles and elements of mimicry. Call is a rolling chrrrp. Status Favours grassy habitats including meadows, heaths and arable farmland. Has declined alarmingly, due to changes in farming practises, but still common. Forms flocks outside breeding season; upland breeding birds move to lowlands in winter.
    156531.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.
    156420.jpg
  • Skylark Alauda arvensis L 18cm. Has nondescript plumage and best known for incessant song, delivered in flight. Sexes are similar. Adult has streaked sandy-brown upperparts and paler underparts; breast is streaked and flushed buff. Short crest is sometimes raised. In flight, note whitish trailing edge to wings and white outer tail feathers. Juvenile is similar but with scaly-looking back. Voice Rapid song comprises trills, whistles and elements of mimicry. Call is a rolling chrrrp. Status Favours grassy habitats including meadows, heaths and arable farmland. Has declined alarmingly, due to changes in farming practises, but still common. Forms flocks outside breeding season; upland breeding birds move to lowlands in winter.
    156387.jpg
  • Dingy Skipper Erynnis tages Wingspan 25mm. The most moth-like of the skippers, with a buzzing flight. Adult has dark grey-brown upperwings; underwings are reddish-brown. Flies May–June. Larva is nocturnal and feeds mainly on Bird’s-foot Trefoil but also related plants. Locally common in England and Wales in meadows and grassy woodland clearings.
    156313.jpg
  • Essex Skipper Thymelicus lineola Wingspan 25mm. Like the very similar Small Skipper, this species has buzzing flight and visits knapweed and thistle flowers to feed. For certain identification look at the underside to the antennal tips: these are black, not brown. Adult has orange-brown upperwings and orange-buff underwings. Flies June–July. Larva is nocturnal feeds on various grasses. Locally common in meadows in southeast England but easily overlooked.
    156310.jpg
  • Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus L 115-125cm. Our smallest swan. Usually seen in medium-sized flocks comprising family groups. Similar to larger Whooper but separated by noting relatively shorter neck and different bill pattern. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly pure white plumage. Bill is wedge-shaped but proportionately shorter than Whooper; yellow colour typically does not extend beyond start of nostrils and yellow patch is usually rounded, not triangular. Juvenile has grubby buffish grey plumage and dark-tipped pink bill Voice Utters various honking and bugling calls. Status Winter visitor, 10,000+ birds found at traditional sites: flooded grassland, marshy meadows and occasionally arable farmland.
    155130.jpg
  • Swaledale hay meadows, Yorkshire Dales, UK
    126951.jpg
  • Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus L 115-125cm. Our smallest swan. Usually seen in medium-sized flocks comprising family groups. Similar to larger Whooper but separated by noting relatively shorter neck and different bill pattern. Sexes are similar. Adult has mainly pure white plumage. Bill is wedge-shaped but proportionately shorter than Whooper; yellow colour typically does not extend beyond start of nostrils and yellow patch is usually rounded, not triangular. Juvenile has grubby buffish grey plumage and dark-tipped pink bill Voice Utters various honking and bugling calls. Status Winter visitor, 10,000+ birds found at traditional sites: flooded grassland, marshy meadows and occasionally arable farmland.
    154289.jpg
  • Dingy Skipper Erynnis tages Wingspan 25mm. The most moth-like of the skippers, with a buzzing flight. Adult has dark grey-brown upperwings; underwings are reddish-brown. Flies May–June. Larva is nocturnal and feeds mainly on Bird’s-foot Trefoil but also related plants. Locally common in England and Wales in meadows and grassy woodland clearings.
    144903.jpg
  • Essex Skipper Thymelicus lineola Wingspan 25mm. Like the very similar Small Skipper, this species has buzzing flight and visits knapweed and thistle flowers to feed. For certain identification look at the underside to the antennal tips: these are black, not brown. Adult has orange-brown upperwings and orange-buff underwings. Flies June–July. Larva is nocturnal feeds on various grasses. Locally common in meadows in southeast England but easily overlooked.
    136589.jpg
  • Essex Skipper Thymelicus lineola Wingspan 25mm. Like the very similar Small Skipper, this species has buzzing flight and visits knapweed and thistle flowers to feed. For certain identification look at the underside to the antennal tips: these are black, not brown. Adult has orange-brown upperwings and orange-buff underwings. Flies June–July. Larva is nocturnal feeds on various grasses. Locally common in meadows in southeast England but easily overlooked.
    136195.jpg
  • WOOD DOCK Rumex sanguineus (Polygonaceae) Height to 1m. Upright, straggly and branched perennial of grassy woodland rides and shady meadows. FLOWERS are borne in spikes; leafy only at the base (Jun-Aug). FRUITS have a single elongated wart. LEAVES are oval; basal ones are heart-shaped at base, sometimes red-veined and never waisted. STATUS-Widespread and common, mainly absent from Scotland.
    141472.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.
    138039.jpg
  • WATER AVENS Geum rivale (Rosaceae) Height to 50cm<br />
Downy perennial of damp meadows, marshes and mountain ledges, mostly on base-rich soils. FLOWERS are nodding, bell-shaped and comprise dark red sepals and pink petals (May-Sep). FRUITS are bur-like but feathery. LEAVES comprise pinnate basal leaves but trifoliate ones on stem. STATUS-Widespread and locally common, except in S England.
    136409.jpg
  • MEADOWSWEET Filipendula ulmaria (Rosaceae) Height to 1.25m. Striking perennial of damp meadows, marshes and stream margins. FLOWERS are 4-6mm across, fragrant and creamy white; borne in sprays (Jun-Sep). FRUITS are spirally twisted and 1-seeded. LEAVES are dark green and comprise 3-5 pairs of oval leaflets with smaller leaflets between. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    132208.jpg
  • COMMON BISTORT Persicaria bistorta (Polygonaceae) Height to 60cm. Attractive perennial of damp meadows that forms patches in suitable locations. FLOWERS are pink and borne in dense, 30-40mm long, terminal spikes (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are nut-like. LEAVES are oval or arrow-shaped, the lower ones stalked, the upper ones almost stalkless. STATUS-Locally common in the N but rare in the S.
    132151.jpg
  • 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.
    132077.jpg
  • PARSLEY WATER-DROPWORT Oenanthe lachenalii (Apiaceae) Height to 1m. Upright, hairless perennial with solid, ridged stems. Found in damp meadows and marshes; tolerates brackish conditions. FLOWERS are white and borne in terminal umbels, 2-6cm across, with 6-15 rays (Jun-Sep). FRUITS are egg-shaped, ribbed and lack swollen, cocky bases (see next species). LEAVES are 2- or 3-pinnate with narrow to oval, flat leaflets, the whole recalling young, fresh Parsley leaves. STATUS-Locally common (mainly coastal) in England, Wales and Ireland; scarce in Scotland.
    131997.jpg
  • 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.
    131941.jpg
  • 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.
    131940.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.
    131861.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
  • MARSH ARROWGRASS Triglochin palustre (Juncaginaceae) Height to 50cm. Recalls Sea Arrowgrass but note differences in leaf and fruit structure. Grows in freshwater habitats, notably marshy meadows. FLOWERS are 2-3mm across, 3-petalled and green, edged with purple; in slender, long-stalked spikes (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are club-shaped with 3 segments. LEAVES are long, narrow and furrowed. STATUS-Locally common.
    131752.jpg
  • MARSH CINQUEFOIL Potentilla palustris (Rosaceae) Height to 40cm. Hairless perennial of marshes and damp meadows. FLOWERS are star-shaped, upright and comprise 5 reddish sepals and smaller purple petals (May-Jul). FRUITS are dry and papery. LEAVES are greyish and pinnately divided into 3 or 5 toothed, oval leaflets. STATUS-Widespread but local; common only in N England and Ireland.
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  • MARSH CINQUEFOIL Potentilla palustris (Rosaceae) Height to 40cm. Hairless perennial of marshes and damp meadows. FLOWERS are star-shaped, upright and comprise 5 reddish sepals and smaller purple petals (May-Jul). FRUITS are dry and papery. LEAVES are greyish and pinnately divided into 3 or 5 toothed, oval leaflets. STATUS-Widespread but local; common only in N England and Ireland.
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  • WOOD CRANE’S-BILL Geranium sylvaticum (Geraniaceae) Height to 60cm. Showy, tufted perennial found in damp, upland meadows and open woodlands, usually on base-rich soils. FLOWERS are 2-3cm across and 5 reddish purple (Jun-Aug). FRUITS end in a long ‘beak’. LEAVES are deeply divided into 5-7 lobes but appear rather rounded overall. STATUS-Absent from much of S England but locally common elsewhere.
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  • WOOD CRANE’S-BILL Geranium sylvaticum (Geraniaceae) Height to 60cm. Showy, tufted perennial found in damp, upland meadows and open woodlands, usually on base-rich soils. FLOWERS are 2-3cm across and 5 reddish purple (Jun-Aug). FRUITS end in a long ‘beak’. LEAVES are deeply divided into 5-7 lobes but appear rather rounded overall. STATUS-Absent from much of S England but locally common elsewhere.
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  • WOOD CRANE’S-BILL Geranium sylvaticum (Geraniaceae) Height to 60cm. Showy, tufted perennial found in damp, upland meadows and open woodlands, usually on base-rich soils. FLOWERS are 2-3cm across and 5 reddish purple (Jun-Aug). FRUITS end in a long ‘beak’. LEAVES are deeply divided into 5-7 lobes but appear rather rounded overall. STATUS-Absent from much of S England but locally common elsewhere.
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  • HOGWEED Heracleum sphondylium (Apiaceae) Height to 2m<br />
Robust, roughly hairy perennial with hollow, ridged stems. Found in meadows and open woodlands and on roadside verges. FLOWERS are off-white, with unequal petals; borne<br />
in umbels with 40 or so rays, and up to 20cm across (May-Aug). FRUITS are elliptical, hairless and flattened. LEAVES are up to 60cm long, broad, hairy and pinnate, the lobes usually rather ovate. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout the region.
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  • CURLED DOCK Rumex crispus (Polygonaceae) Height to 1m<br />
Upright perennial of rough meadows and disturbed soils. FLOWERS are flattened and oval; borne in dense, leafless spikes that do not spread away from the stem (Jun-Oct). FRUITS are oval and untoothed, usually with a single tubercle. LEAVES are narrow, up to 25cm long and have wavy edges. STATUS-Widespread and common.
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  • YORKSHIRE FOG Holcus lanatus Height to 1m<br />
Variable, tufted perennial with grey-green, downy stems. Grows in meadows, woods and waste ground. FLOWERS in heads that are tightly packed at first but then spread; comprise reddish-tipped, grey-green, 2-flowered spikelets (May-Aug). FRUITS are small, dry nutlets. LEAVES are grey-green and downy. STATUS-Widespread and common.
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  • SOUTHERN MARSH-ORCHID Dactylorhiza praetermissa (Orchidaceae) Height to 70cm. Robust orchid of water meadows, fens and wet dune-slacks, mostly on calcareous soils. FLOWERS are pinkish purple with a broad 3-lobed lip, 11-14mm long, the lobes shallow and blunt; borne in tall, dense spikes (May-Jun). FRUITS are egg-shaped. LEAVES are glossy dark green, unmarked (rarely ring-spotted) and broadly lanceolate, largest at the base and becoming narrower and sheathing up the stem. STATUS-Common only in S.
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  • SOUTHERN MARSH-ORCHID Dactylorhiza praetermissa (Orchidaceae) Height to 70cm. Robust orchid of water meadows, fens and wet dune-slacks, mostly on calcareous soils. FLOWERS are pinkish purple with a broad 3-lobed lip, 11-14mm long, the lobes shallow and blunt; borne in tall, dense spikes (May-Jun). FRUITS are egg-shaped. LEAVES are glossy dark green, unmarked (rarely ring-spotted) and broadly lanceolate, largest at the base and becoming narrower and sheathing up the stem. STATUS-Common only in S.
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  • BROAD-LEAVED DOCK Rumex obtusifolius (Polygonaceae) Height to 1m. Familiar upright perennial of field margins and disturbed meadows. FLOWERS are borne in loose spikes that are leafy at the base (Jun-Aug). FRUITS have prominent teeth and 1 tubercle. LEAVES are broadly oval, heart-shaped at the base and up to 25cm long. STATUS-Widespread and extremely common throughout.
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  • YORKSHIRE FOG Holcus lanatus Height to 1m<br />
Variable, tufted perennial with grey-green, downy stems. Grows in meadows, woods and waste ground. FLOWERS in heads that are tightly packed at first but then spread; comprise reddish-tipped, grey-green, 2-flowered spikelets (May-Aug). FRUITS are small, dry nutlets. LEAVES are grey-green and downy. STATUS-Widespread and common.
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  • 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.
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  • LESSER STITCHWORT Stellaria graminea (Caryophyllaceae) Height to 50cm. Perennial of open woodland, meadows and hedgerows, mainly on acid soils. Note the smooth-edged stems. FLOWERS are white and 5-15mm across, with 5 deeply divided petals (May-Aug). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are long, narrow, smooth-edged and grass-like. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
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  • CELERY-LEAVED BUTTERCUP Ranunculus scleratus (Ranunculaceae) Height to 50cm. Yellowish green annual with hollow stems. Favours marshes and wet grazing meadows, often on trampled ground. FLOWERS are 5-10mm across with pale yellow petals; borne in clusters (May-Sep). FRUITS have elongated heads. LEAVES are celery-like and divided into 3 lobes (basal leaves); stem leaves less divided. STATUS-Locally common in S.
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  • SOFT-BROME Bromus hordaceus Height to 1m<br />
Softly downy annual or biennial that grows in meadows and on verges. FLOWERS are borne in moderately compact heads with short-stalked, hairy and egg-shaped spikelets (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are small, dry nutlets. LEAVES are greyish green and rolled when young, with hairy sheaths. STATUS-Widespread and common.
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  • COMMON BISTORT Persicaria bistorta (Polygonaceae) Height to 60cm. Attractive perennial of damp meadows that forms patches in suitable locations. FLOWERS are pink and borne in dense, 30-40mm long, terminal spikes (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are nut-like. LEAVES are oval or arrow-shaped, the lower ones stalked, the upper ones almost stalkless. STATUS-Locally common in the N but rare in the S.
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  • GERMANDER SPEEDWELL Veronica chamaedrys (Scrophulariaceae) Height to 20cm. Delicate and attractive perennial with creeping stems that root at the nodes, and upright flowering stems that have 2 lines of hairs. Grows in grassy places, in meadows and open woodlands, and on verges. FLOWERS are 10-12mm across, the corolla 4-lobed and blue with a white centre; borne on slender stalks in open, terminal spikes (Apr-Jun). FRUITS are flattened, hairy and heart-shaped capsules. LEAVES are oval, toothed, hairy and short-stalked. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
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  • FRITILLARY Fritillaria meleagris (Liliaceae) Height to 30cm<br />
Perennial of undisturbed water meadows. FLOWERS are 3-5cm long, nodding, bell-shaped and usually pinkish purple with dark chequerboard markings (sometimes pure white); borne on slender stems (Apr-May). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are grey-green, narrow and grass-like. STATUS-Very locally abundant in S England; naturalised elsewhere.
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  • FRITILLARY Fritillaria meleagris (Liliaceae) Height to 30cm<br />
Perennial of undisturbed water meadows. FLOWERS are 3-5cm long, nodding, bell-shaped and usually pinkish purple with dark chequerboard markings (sometimes pure white); borne on slender stems (Apr-May). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are grey-green, narrow and grass-like. STATUS-Very locally abundant in S England; naturalised elsewhere.
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  • HEMLOCK WATER-DROPWORT Oenanthe crocata (Apiaceae) Height to 1.25m. Distinctive and highly poisonous perennial that sometimes forms sizeable clumps. The stems are hollow and grooved and the plant smells of Parsley. Found in damp meadows and ditches. FLOWERS are white and borne in domed umbels, 5-10cm across, with 10-40 rays and numerous bracts (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are cylindrical, with long styles. LEAVES are 2-4 times pinnately divided with toothed, tapering lobes. STATUS-Widespread but locally common only in S and W Britain; scarce in, or absent from, much of the N.
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  • TIMOTHY Phleum pratense Height to 1.5m. Robust, hairless and tufted perennial of meadows, agricultural land and waysides. FLOWERS are borne in dense, cylindrical and rough heads, 13-16cm long, with purplish green spikelets, each with a short awn (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are small, dry nutlets. LEAVES are broad, rough and flat, with blunt ligules. STATUS-Widespread and common.
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  • FALSE OXLIP Primula veris x vulgaris (Primulaceae) Height to 20cm. Naturally occurring hybrid between Primrose and Cowslip that superficially resembles Oxlip. Found in hedgerows, woodlands and meadows, where both parents occur. FLOWERS are 15-20mm across, yellow and 5-lobed; borne in umbels that are not 1-sided (Mar-May). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are oval, crinkly and tapering, forming a basal rosette. STATUS-Widespread but always local and far less numerous than parent plants.
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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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  • WOOD DOCK Rumex sanguineus (Polygonaceae) Height to 1m. Upright, straggly and branched perennial of grassy woodland rides and shady meadows. FLOWERS are borne in spikes; leafy only at the base (Jun-Aug). FRUITS have a single elongated wart. LEAVES are oval; basal ones are heart-shaped at base, sometimes red-veined and never waisted. STATUS-Widespread and common, mainly absent from Scotland.
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  • CLUSTERED DOCK Rumex conglomeratus (Polygonaceae) Height to 1m. Upright perennial with a zigzag stem and spreading branches. Found in meadows and woodland margins, often on damp soil. FLOWERS are borne in leafy spikes. FRUITS are small, untoothed, with 3 elongated tubercles (Jun-Aug). LEAVES are oval; basal ones heart-shaped at base and often waisted. STATUS-Mostly common but rare in Scotland.
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  • PEACH-LEAVED BELLFLOWER Campanula persicifolia (Campanulaceae) Height to 70cm. Upright, hairless perennial that grows in meadows, open woodland and hedgerows. FLOWERS are 3-4cm long, the corolla blue and bell-shaped but expanded, rather rounded and open, with short lobes; borne in open spikes on slender stalks (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are dry capsules. LEAVES are narrowly ovate with rounded teeth at the base of the plant; stem leaves are narrow, with rounded teeth. STATUS-Introduced and grown as a garden plant, but naturalised locally, mainly in the S of the region.
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  • 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.
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  • HEMLOCK WATER-DROPWORT Oenanthe crocata (Apiaceae) Height to 1.25m. Distinctive and highly poisonous perennial that sometimes forms sizeable clumps. The stems are hollow and grooved and the plant smells of Parsley. Found in damp meadows and ditches. FLOWERS are white and borne in domed umbels, 5-10cm across, with 10-40 rays and numerous bracts (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are cylindrical, with long styles. LEAVES are 2-4 times pinnately divided with toothed, tapering lobes. STATUS-Widespread but locally common only in S and W Britain; scarce in, or absent from, much of the N.
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  • RAGGED-ROBIN Lychnis flos-cuculi (Caryophyllaceae) Height to 65cm. Delicate-looking perennial of damp meadows, fens and marshes. FLOWERS comprise 5 pink petals; each is divided into 4 ‘ragged’ lobes (May-Aug). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are narrow, grass-like and rough, the upper ones in opposite pairs. STATUS-Widespread and common, but decreasing due to agricultural changes (eg land drainage).
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  • GERMANDER SPEEDWELL Veronica chamaedrys (Scrophulariaceae) Height to 20cm<br />
Delicate and attractive perennial with creeping stems that root at the nodes, and upright flowering stems that have 2 lines of hairs. Grows in grassy places, in meadows and open woodlands, and on verges. FLOWERS are 10-12mm across, the corolla 4-lobed and blue with a white centre; borne on slender stalks in open, terminal spikes (Apr-Jun). FRUITS are flattened, hairy and heart-shaped capsules. LEAVES are oval, toothed, hairy and short-stalked. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
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  • WILD DAFFODIL Narcissus pseudonarcissus (Liliaceae) Height to 50cm. Bulbous perennial of open woods and meadows that often flourishes after coppicing. FLOWERS are 5-6cm across, with 6 pale yellow outer segments and a deep yellow trumpet (Mar-Apr). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are grey-green, narrow and all basal. STATUS-Locally common native in parts of England and Wales; sometimes naturalised elsewhere.
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  • GLOBEFLOWER Trollius europaeus (Ranunculaceae) Height to 60cm. Attractive perennial of damp, upland and northern meadows. FLOWERS are spherical, 30-40mm across, with 10-15 yellow sepals; borne on long, upright stems (May-Aug). FRUITS are many-seeded and dry. LEAVES are palmately divided into toothed lobes. STATUS-Absent from S but very locally common from N Wales to Scotland, also NW Ireland.
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  • MEADOWSWEET Filipendula ulmaria (Rosaceae) Height to 1.25m. Striking perennial of damp meadows, marshes and stream margins. FLOWERS are 4-6mm across, fragrant and creamy white; borne in sprays (Jun-Sep). FRUITS are spirally twisted and 1-seeded. LEAVES are dark green and comprise 3-5 pairs of oval leaflets with smaller leaflets between. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
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  • HOGWEED Heracleum sphondylium (Apiaceae) Height to 2m<br />
Robust, roughly hairy perennial with hollow, ridged stems. Found in meadows and open woodlands and on roadside verges. FLOWERS are off-white, with unequal petals; borne<br />
in umbels with 40 or so rays, and up to 20cm across (May-Aug). FRUITS are elliptical, hairless and flattened. LEAVES are up to 60cm long, broad, hairy and pinnate, the lobes usually rather ovate. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout the region.
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  • OXEYE DAISY Leucanthemum vulgare (Asteraceae) Height to 60cm. Downy or hairless perennial of dry, grassy meadows and verges, often on disturbed ground. FLOWERS are borne in solitary heads, 30-50mm across, with yellow disc florets and white ray florets (May-Sep). No scales between disc florets. FRUITS are achenes. LEAVES are dark green and toothed; lower leaves are spoon-shaped, stalked and form a rosette, stem leaves are pinnately lobed. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
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  • CURLED DOCK Rumex crispus (Polygonaceae) Height less than 1m. Upright perennial of rough meadows and disturbed soils. FLOWERS are flattened and oval; borne in dense, leafless spikes that do not spread away from the stem (Jun-Oct). FRUITS are oval and untoothed, usually with a single tubercle. LEAVES are narrow, up to 25cm long and have wavy edges.
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  • Creeping Bent (Agrostis stolonifera) HEIGHT to 1m. Hairless perennial with creeping runners and upright stems; meadows and waste ground. FLOWERS Comprising yellow-green spikelets borne in dense, tall, branched, whorled heads (June-Aug). FRUITS Small, dry nutlets. LEAVES Narrow, with bluntly pointed ligules.
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  • SPEAR MINT Mentha spicata (Lamiaceae) Height to 75cm<br />
Almost hairless perennial that is the most popular cultivated culinary mint. Grows in damp ground; outside the garden context, it is found in meadows and on verges. FLOWERS are 3-4mm long and pinkish lilac; borne in tall, whorled terminal spikes (Jul-Oct). FRUITS are nutlets. LEAVES are narrow-ovate, toothed and almost unstalked.
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  • NORTHERN MARSH-ORCHID Dactylorhiza purpurella (Orchidaceae) Height to 60cm. Northern counterpart of Southern Marsh-orchid. Grows in damp meadows. FLOWERS are reddish purple, the lip broadly diamond-shaped with indistinct lobes and dark streaks; borne in spikes (Jun-Jul). FRUITS are egg-shaped. LEAVES are green and narrow, including those at the base. STATUS-Mainly N England, N Wales and N Ireland.
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  • WILD ANGELICA Angelica sylvestris (Apiaceae) Height to 2m<br />
Robust and almost hairless perennial with hollow, purplish stems. Found in damp meadows and woodlands. FLOWERS are white (sometimes tinged pink) and borne in robust, domed umbels up to 15cm across (Jun-Jul). FRUITS are oval, flattened and 4-winged. LEAVES are 2- 3-pinnate; lower leaves up to 60cm long, upper leaves are smaller than and their bases form inflated sheaths. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
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