Newsletter 126
Flora Report
Pink Purslane
April did not have its fair share of showers as tradition would suggest, rather more sun than I expected especially over Easter. Wood Sorrel, Dog Violet and Red Campion started the show, but Cuckoo Flower seemed much more abundant than recent years as was our display of Bluebells. This delicate flower delighted our olfactory senses in its usual haunts of Birkacre, Roddlesworth and Cuerden. Garlic Mustard also proved plentiful which is good news for Orange Tips. Ivy-leaved Toadflax, Hairy Woodrush and Lords and Ladies added to the profusion of early spring flowers.
By May, Herb Bennet, Pignut, Red Clover and Yellow Pimpernel were seen. The Scarlet variety proved to be as elusive as its literary namesake. Yellow Rattle, Pink Purslane and Foxglove gave good showings. Yellow Flag Iris reminded me that the Pimpernel is not the only French related flower we enjoy. This of course was the emblem of the French aristocracy that was initially beaten at the battle of Sluys in June 1340 ensuring England would not be invaded.
In June 2009 the weather was more like the tropics than the edge of Europe with Pineapple Weed reminding us of its larger namesake. Cleavers although growing earlier did not flower until this month, delighting young folk who perennially stick it on my back. June is also good for the appearance of the willowherbs, Broad-leaved, Great and Rosebay. Marsh Cinquefoil was again spotted on the Pond dipping for adults event on Cuerden. The weather deteriorated at the end of June which gave me time to start writing this report.
Thanks to Diana Downing, Tony Dunn, Jack Hewitt, Gary Lilley, Jim Longbottom, Joyce Riley, Neil Southworth, Nora West and Carol Winder
David Beattie