Weeds to some, flowers to many others, our native wildflowers are very much part of the fabric of our countryside and to a lesser extent the parks and verges of our towns and cities. They can go unnoticed, unless growing abundantly and putting on a display with swathes of colour.
But they are significant, and here’s why…
They act as seasonal markers for us
Wildflowers hold a special place in the hearts of many, and here in Britain, with our beautiful landscapes and wild spaces, one aspect that interests us so much is the sheer diversity of wildflowers that bloom across the countryside at different times of year.
From Bluebells and Primula in Spring, Cow Parsley and Cornflowers in Summer to Poppies and Foxgloves in Autumn. And even in the depths of a British Winter, wildflowers can be found in our woods and hedgerows such as tiny Cyclamen and Snowdrops.
Spending time in nature reduces stress and improves our mood no end! Discovering wildflowers while we’re out and about is an added bonus and a wonderful way to connect with nature and appreciate the changing seasons. Who doesn’t love wandering through a bluebell wood, or strolling along a poppy-lined field, or walking along paths flanked by swathes of little white snowdrops…
They play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing our ecosystems
Wildflowers provide essential habitat and food sources for many species of insects, birds, and small mammals. And pollinators such as bees and butterflies rely heavily on wildflowers for their nectar and pollen which are critical for their survival. Their attraction to beneficial insects such as ladybirds and lacewings help control pest populations in agricultural fields and gardens, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
But their role in climate regulation is perhaps the most impressive aspect of these flowers! Carbon in their biomass and root systems, helps to mitigate the effects of climate change with wildflower meadows acting as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in the soil.
They also help prevent soil erosion, soil health and even flooding. Established wildflower meadows in particular have complex root systems, which makes the soil more stable than it would otherwise be. This helps reduce flooding by holding on to rain water, which in turn stops nutrients from washing away.
Clever!
Wildflowers hold cultural significance
Wildflowers feature significantly in art, literature, festivals and in folklore in particular..
Seasonal blogger Laura, of The Smallest Light has written a brilliant feature on the stories and legends surrounding our native wildflowers. From the sense of wonder, mystery and awe they inspire as well as the knowledge on their practical uses built up over centuries.
Delve into some of those stories and why they matter so much - ‘Where the Wildflowers Are’
So next time you come across a field of meadow flowers remember they are so much more than pretty plants; they provide a wealth of benefits to the environment, economy, and human wellbeing.
And on the subject of wellbeing and wildflowers, here’s a few lovely things from around our shop…
Burn the Rosemary & Wildflower Scented candle by Freight HG and infuse your space with its softly floral and green herbal notes. Bliss!
Grow your own wildflowers. This beautiful book Planting Wildflowers- A Growers Guide is packed with interesting facts, environmental and habitat information and easy-to-achieve planting ideas. It’s a real celebration of our native blooms which will help you rewild your outdoor space with confidence.
Flower presses by Studio Wald are perfect for preserving wildflowers you pick up on your walks and there’s even a pocket version so you can collect and press them on the go.
Beebombs Wildflower Seedballs will get you started. These handmade, native wildflower Beebombs have 1000s of seeds from 18 native wildflower species.
Wildflower honey is delicious and we stock one that's as local as it comes- from the bees of one of our local flower grower suppliers, Amaranthus Flowers in East Lothian. Available in store only due to limited stocks, not online.
And of course, a little bunch of flowers- or an abundant vase like below- which include some locally grown wildflower varieties is a lovely thing to have. We always have posies made up at the shop, or choose flowers online or your own mix at the shop to bring a little more joy indoors.
