Plants

Rock Samphire

Rock Samphire has been regularly consumed as part of a traditional Mediterranean diet. It’s time to bring this delicious vegetable back into our kitchens … Continue

Hazel

“Hazel was one of the first trees to colonise the land after the end of the last Ice Age,” writes Gabrielle Hatfield, “and for … Continue

Sea Purslane

Sea Purslane is a slow-growing shrub belonging to the goosefoot family and found in salt marshes and muddy beaches. Its thick, succulent leaves have … Continue

Himalayan balsam

The transportation of seeds or whole plants is an offence under the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019 in England and Wales … Continue

Orpine

Introduction Orpine is from the Latin verb sedeo, which means to sit. A reference to how the plant squats on rocks etc. The species … Continue

Lady’s-smock (Cuckooflower)

As the cuckoo calls in late spring and early summer, so the cuckooflower’s conspicuous blooms start to appear. Cardamine pratensis was also known as ‘water … Continue

Black mustard

Introduction Black mustard is an intrepid plant that has trekked its way across the world and is now cultivated in many countries including England, … Continue

Oxeye Daisy

A familiar sight in fields, the Oxeye Daisy is found throughout Britain, Europe and Russian Asia. When it was introduced to North America, the … Continue

Hogweed

I no longer recommend this plant be served to the public. This plant is not for beginners. Never eat raw. Always wear gloves when … Continue

Sweet Violet

There are around 400 species of violet found in the world, many of which are economically important. With so many species to distinguish between … Continue

Red Campion

A recognisable flower of the hedgerows, the flowers of Red Campion (Silene dioica) were said to resemble buttons. The Latin name Silene comes from … Continue

Three-cornered Leek/Garlic

Under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1985 and amendments) it is an offence to deliberately or accidentally introduce this plant into … Continue

Wych elm

With around forty-five species of elm found in forests in the northern hemisphere to the tropical mountains of Asia, we’re spoilt for choice. Here, … Continue

Silver birch

Introduction The birch tree is the ‘lady of the forest’ with its silvery bark, elegant white boughs and delicate leaves. The Latin name for … Continue

Salad Burnet

Salad Burnet is one of the few wild species which supplies edible greenery for most of the year. During the winter and spring months, … Continue