In July and August, the summer holidays are in full swing and if you are at home with the kids, it is a great time of year to get out and about and enjoy the countryside. Going out into the countryside is great for health, costs little to nothing and is a great way to explore the natural world. At this time of the year, there are also plenty of beautiful wildflowers to see all around the habitats of the UK, from the moors and grasslands to the woodlands.
As much as we all enjoy a professional bouquet from somewhere like this Tewkesbury Florist https://flowershedtewkesbury.co.uk on a special occasion, there is something special about going out and learning more about the nature that surrounds us – here are some of the plants to look out for at this time of the year…
Oxeye daisies are one of the most cheerful summer flowers and can be found in many sunny spots – these large daises, also known as moon daises due to their resemblance to the full moon, can be seen in fields and grasslands as well as alongside grass verges.
Another grassland plant that is in bloom from June to September is common knapweed – looking like a tall purple thistle it is found in many types of grasslands and in woodland rides. Butterflies like the marbled white butterfly and common blue butterfly are attracted to this flower.
In damp areas, such as around ditches and riverbanks, look out for meadowsweet. The frothy looking creamy coloured plants on tall stems have a sweet smell as the name suggests and in fact the flowers have been used to add flavour to beers and jams.
Birds foot trefoil, also known by other names such as eggs and bacon and even granny’s toenails, is a small yellow flower with yellow curved leaves and red buds. It is very important for many butterfly species, being a food for the caterpillars and is also a source of nectar for bees. It is found in many areas, being an adaptable and hardy plant, from farmland to rocky coastal habitats, and is a great garden plant if you want to help wildlife.
