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 Common marsh bedstraw, a friendly wetland plant! This unassuming green patch is a haven for insects and wildlife. Traditionally, people used it to stuff mattresses (hence the name “bedstraw”!) and even as a cheese-making aid. It’s an important part of the ecosystem, preventing erosion and providing habitat. Interestingly, its leaves can smell like honey … 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
The evergreen oak, a Mediterranean marvel, is a sturdy tree that stays green year-round. Its strong wood is great for construction and firewood. Wildlife love its acorns, which provide vital food. These oaks help prevent soil erosion and create diverse habitats. Interestingly, some live for hundreds of years, standing as silent witnesses to history! Evergreen … Read more
Woodbine, or honeysuckle, is a charming vine beloved for its sweet fragrance and trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Its berries provide food for birds, playing a key role in the ecosystem. Often used to add a romantic touch to gardens, Woodbine climbs and twines, creating a beautiful, wildlife-friendly haven. Some varieties even change … 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
Don’t let the sting fool you! Common nettle, that plant your grandma warned you about, is surprisingly useful. Its leaves are edible when cooked, packed with nutrients and a popular herbal remedy. Nettle also feeds insects and provides shelter, making it vital to local ecosystems. Plus, did you know it can be used to make … 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