One leaf at time
Meet Bennet’s-root, a woodland gem! This humble plant offers more than meets the eye. Historically, its root was used to soothe aches and pains. Ecologically, it’s a boon for pollinators and ground cover. A unique trait? It subtly perfumes the air, especially after rain, with a clove-like scent – a welcome surprise on forest walks! … Read more
Cow-parsley, a familiar sight in spring meadows, is more than just a pretty face! Its delicate white flowers provide vital nectar for pollinators like bees and hoverflies. While sometimes mistaken for poisonous look-alikes, its leaves are edible when young and have a subtle anise flavour. This common plant truly boosts biodiversity and adds charm to … Read more
Meet Persian speedwell, a tiny, cheerful plant with bright blue flowers! Often seen in lawns and gardens, it’s a surprisingly important food source for early pollinators. While some consider it a weed, it’s also used traditionally for teas and tinctures. Uniquely, its seed pods are heart-shaped and incredibly tiny, making it a charming little addition … Read more
Meet Jacobaea, often called ragwort! This cheerful, yellow-flowered plant is more than just a pretty face. Historically used in herbal remedies, it’s a vital food source for many insects, including the Cinnabar moth. While beautiful, it can be toxic to some livestock, highlighting nature’s delicate balance. With its bright blooms and complex role in the … Read more
Raspberries are a tasty treat and so much more! These vibrant berries are loved in jams, desserts, and even teas. For wildlife, raspberry bushes offer food and shelter. Uniquely, raspberries aren’t actually berries! They’re aggregate fruits, made of lots of tiny drupelets. So, next time you enjoy one, remember you’re helping nature and savoring a … Read more
Meet the white birch, a beautiful tree with distinctive papery bark! Often used for crafts and sometimes even syrup, it’s also vital for wildlife, providing food and shelter. What makes it special? The bark naturally peels in layers, revealing a vibrant orange underneath. It’s like nature’s own artwork, adding charm to forests and gardens alike! … Read more
Meet Burnet-saxifrage, a charming wildflower often found in meadows! Its feathery leaves offer a subtle cucumber flavor, making it a unique culinary herb. Beyond the kitchen, it’s vital for pollinators, attracting bees and butterflies. This unassuming plant also provides habitat for various insects, playing a key role in supporting the ecosystem. Keep an eye out … Read more
Meet Hawthorn, the hedgerow hero! This thorny plant isn’t just pretty with its spring blossoms and autumn berries; it’s a haven for wildlife. Birds nest in its branches, and insects feast on its flowers. People use it to create sturdy hedges and even for traditional medicine. Hawthorn’s a true multi-tasker, beautifying the landscape while supporting … Read more
Meet cow vetch, a charming vine with clusters of purple flowers! Farmers love it as a natural fertilizer, enriching soil for crops. Bees and butterflies adore its nectar, making it vital for pollinators. As it climbs, it creates shelter for insects and small creatures. Despite being pretty, it can spread quickly, so gardeners should keep … Read more
Meet European fivefinger, a charming, ground-hugging plant with delicate, five-fingered leaves and cheery yellow flowers! Historically used in folk remedies, it’s now valued for erosion control and attracting pollinators. This little plant plays a vital role in supporting local ecosystems, offering food and shelter to insects. Its ability to thrive in challenging conditions makes it … Read more