The colder weather recently has meant many plants are flowering a few weeks late. Still, there is a lot to see, and a lot of promise budding up for the weeks to come.

Besides the delightful English bluebells, and the blossom on the apple, pear and crabapple trees, here are some of the other highlights to look out for.

Greater Stitchwort (Stellaria holostea)

As pretty as stars,  this member of the carnation family grows in abundant clusters in areas of the Park.  Named after their herbal use in curing ‘stitch’, they are also plant food for bees and especially moths. They have an explosive seed-dispersal mechanism. In late spring, when the seed capsules ripen, they can be heard popping as they noisily fire their seeds. Some say that if you pick greater stitchwort, you will cause a thunderstorm !!

Cowslip (Primula veris)

Cowslips are beginning to flower in the wildflower meadow. A traditional native flower they are important  nourishment for bees, beetles and butterflies such as the brimstone and  Duke of Burgundy .  The plant is said to have sedative qualities and  was traditionally used to treat sleeping problems and coughs.  The Spanish add the leaves to recipes for a citrusy flavour;  they also traditionally flavour English country wine.