The flat-topped, creamy-white flower clusters or corymbs of the Elder (Sambucus nigra) or Trom in Irish formed lofty, fragrant tiers when they dominated the hedgerows in June. These flowers were used to make wines, cordials and elderflower water which is used as a skin cleanser (1). The flowers have now turned into purplish/black berries (2a;2b))…
The attractive, juicy, shiny, red berries of Guelder rose (Viburnum opulus) or Caorchon in Irish are a lovely sight now as they hang in inviting clusters from the hedgerows (1). These “berries” are technically drupes. (A drupe is a fleshy fruit with a central seed within a hard substance. This looks like a little stone). …
The beautiful, pale pink to white blossoms of the Dog rose (Rosa canina) or Feirdhris in Irish which brightened up the hedgerows in June have now turned to scarlet rose hips which are very noticeable. (1a;1b) These are rich in Vitamin C and were collected in England during the Second World War to make syrups…
Field scabious Knautia arvensis) or Cab an ghasáin in Irish is an attractive wildflower which is frequently seen now in most places in Ireland except the west. (1a;1b) It grows on roadside verges, hedge banks and dry grasslands. Its stems are hairy and wiry, with a scabby appearance and its height can vary from 40…
Common or Black knapweed (Centaurea nigra) or Mínscoth/Mullach dubh in Irish is common on roadside verges, grasslands and wastelands from July to September. (1) Superficially the plant looks like a thistle because of its deep purple flowers and similar flowerhead but on close inspection it will be noticed that it possesses no prickles. The dark brown…
