These pictures were taken during a short walk this morning along a path which runs from the Ormsaigbeg road down to the sea. For much of its way it plunges through stands of bracken which, while still thick and impenetrable, aren't as luxuriant as in most years since they were burned by the salt winds of May's storm, but a section of the path runs through open meadow which teems with wild flowers.
Nearest the road there are stands of thistles of at least two types. The Diary is overawed by the variety of thistles shown both in its Scottish wildflower book and in Kilchoan's fields, but thinks that, from its leaves, the top one may be Black Knapweed and the one above, with its spiky leaves, Creeping Thistle. The goldfinches love this time of year, as the seeds which are carried away by the thistle down are one of their favourite foods, and large flocks of them can be seen working their way across the fields.
This is probably Devilsbit Scabeus. The 'scabeus' name comes from its use as a treatment for scabies and other skin sores, including those caused by bubonic plague - a useful piece of information.
The Diary is defeated by this flower, which is very popular with one particular species of local bee. It has an elongate, serrated leaf - visible in the background - which comes straight out from the stalk, and some of the flowers appear where the leaves meet the stalk. An identification would be much appreciated.
lovely wild flowers
ReplyDeleteDevils Bit scabious has scallop edged leaves, ie has been bit by something. The unknown plant may be woundwort but would need to see the leaves.
ReplyDeleteStachys palustris - Marsh Woundwart
ReplyDeleteDave
Have had another look at the plant following these two comments - for which many thanks - and Marsh Woundwart looks very likely.
ReplyDelete