11 botanists met at Bolton Abbey to explore the west bank of the River Wharfe. Familiar with this stretch of river, I was surprised by the variety of wildflowers on the riverbank and further upstream in the woods. We identified 90 plants in all. We also enjoyed watching the Common Sandpiper and a pair of flirting Gosanders.
In particular we identified 7 ferns, recognised the unusual looking Butterbur and distinguished between the Common and Early Dog violets. We saw early examples of Lady’s smock and Bulbus buttercup. We found Woodruff and Sanicle.
I was enchanted by the seeds of the Wych Elm ( Ulmus glabra). There were plenty of Wild Arum ( Arum maculatum) in flower.
We discussed the origins of non native Few Flowered Leek ( Allium paradoxum).
My highlights were the plentiful Native Bluebells and Wild garlic covering the woodland floor, Herb Paris and Toothwort (the later found on the wetter west bank of the Wharfe).
Our next outing lead by Jane is at Oxenber and Wharfe woods near Feizor, we hope that you can join us.
Rosemary