Flowering plants and ferns

SPECIES ACCOUNT

LYCOPODIOPSIDA mapped in Scarce Plants in Britain 2 tetrads. Found at 440m. Clubmosses and Quillworts but, judging by the source, may be amongst heath vegetation on an an error. ungrazed ledge just above water level, at Loch Bealach a’Bhuirich, LYCOPODIACEAE by G.P.Rothero, and at 340m. on Lycopodium clavatum L. dry stony ground south of the Allt Lus a’Mhadaidh-ruaidh Mhic Mhurchaidh Gheir, on the Huperzia selago (L.) Bernh. ex Stag’s-horn Clubmoss south-eastern slopes of Canisp. It Schrank & Martius was reported in 1981 from NC13. (Lycopodium selago L.) First recorded in 1994 from the Garbhag an t-Slèibhe first of these sites. Fir Clubmoss 3

Diphasiastrum alpinum (L.) Holub 2 (Lycopodium alpinum L.) Garbhag Ailpeach 3 1 Alpine Clubmoss

2 0 1 2 3 3 1 20 tetrads. Found in only a limited number of localities, although often in good stands 2 0 1 2 3 where it does occur. Its prostrate 131 tetrads. Widespread and growth, beneath heath vegetation, 1 common in wet heath, stony means that it is almost certainly flushes and open unshaded under-recorded, although in an habitats, where the vegetation is extensive population the upright 0 1 2 3 thin. It occurs from high on the fertile shoots bearing pale green hills down almost to sea level, but cones may be visible from a 38 tetrads. Found regularly on the is less frequent in limestone considerable distance. Particularly higher hills, where it grows in districts. First recorded in 1767 abundant on the northern slopes of exposed situations receiving little from the Inchnadamph area by Cnoc na Sròine and along the protection from surrounding J.Robertson. margins of forestry rides at vegetation. First recorded during Ledmore. First recorded in 1886 the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. from Elphin by A.Gray. Lycopodiella inundata (L.) Holub (Lycopodium inundatum L). Diphasiastrum issleri (Rouy) Garbhag Lèana Lycopodium annotinum L. Holub Marsh Clubmoss Lus a’Bhalgair (D. complanatum ssp. issleri Interrupted Clubmoss (Rouy) Jermy) Not seen during the present survey. Garbhag Issler This elusive plant was first Yellow Cypress Clubmoss recorded in July 1907 from ‘near the base’ of Canisp by G.C.Druce 3 1 tetrad. The only known locality (the date of 1903 in Anthony for this Red Data Book species is Canisp, where it was first recorded appears to be an error). It has so 2 far defeated the efforts of a number by A.G.Kenneth in 1985. An of botanists to re-find it; some estimate of the extent of the site was made in 1998, during the likely ground is the area of wet 1 peat and pools immediately north present survey. Growing on stony, of Loch Awe, at NC2416. An only lightly vegetated ground, the impressively large population undated record from NC03 is 0 1 2 3

65 Flora of Assynt

ISOETACEAE Isoetes echinospora Durieu Luibh Cleite an Earraich 3 Spring Quillwort Isoetes lacustris L. Luibh nan Cleiteagan 2 Quillwort 3 1

2 3 0 1 2 3 1 stretches for 500m. along 2 approximately the 250m. contour, on the botanically dour Cambrian 1 0 1 2 3 quartzite of the south-eastern slopes of Canisp. Its slightly 16 tetrads. Considerably less yellow-green colour makes it 0 1 2 3 common than I. lacustris, but there easily recognisable. It is is no noticeable difference in the interesting that barely a kilometre 43 tetrads. This species has been character of the lochs in which the away on the same hill, is one of found to be widespread in lochs two species occur. I. echinospora Assynt’s two localities for where the bottom is composed of has been found once at an altitude Lycopodium annotinum. sand, gravel or small stones, from of 340m., but that is an isolated near sea level to over 500m. A case and most of the records come characteristic sight is the spiky from lower ground. It has been SELAGINELLACEAE leaves curving upwards from found once in a burn, the same beneath a medium-sized stone, locality that produced the first where a germinating spore had record, made in 1908, from ‘peaty Selaginella selaginoides (L.) presumably been caught. The pools, Unapool Burn’ by P.Beauv. plants were searched for on foot in E.S.Marshall and W.A.Shoolbred. Garbhag Bheag shallow water and, as they may Lesser Clubmoss grow to a depth of 6m., the species may be under-recorded. One EQUISETOPSIDA record is from a burn and a few Horsetails were from drifted material. All 3 determinations of this and the following species were made by EQUISETACEAE microscopic examination of the 2 megaspores. First recorded in 1899 from ‘two lochs on Glas Equisetum hyemale L. 1 Bheinn’ by C.E.Salmon. Biorag Rough Horsetail

0 1 2 3 Isoetes x hickeyi Taylor & Luebke I. lacustris x I. echinospora 129 tetrads. Extremely widely 3 distributed in wet flushes and Specimens taken from Loch an seepage areas, where there is a Leothaid and Loch a’Choire degree of base-richness, even if Dhuibh in 1995 had malformed 2 very localised. It grows in open megaspores, suggesting that the unshaded situations, and where plants may have been of hybrid Pinguicula lusitanica occurs origin. 1 Selaginella is often nearby. First recorded in 1767 from the 0 1 2 3 Inchnadamph area by J.Robertson. 7 tetrads. Rare. Found in four instances in limestone flushes, but the other three records appear to be associated with basic or ultrabasic dykes cutting through the gneiss.

66 Flowering plants and ferns

The largest population extends for a’Chalda Beag. Five of the small quarries. Also along rivers 20m., growing in the riffle of a records are from limestone and one and burns, on bare ground at the small burn. First recorded in 1886 from the foot of Beinn Gharbh, water’s edge. First recorded in at ‘Achumore’ by A.Gray. A small where an ultrabasic dyke cuts Anthony. stand is still present on what we through the gneiss. First recorded judge to be that site. in 1887 ‘by the Traligill, Inchna- damph’ by E.S.Marshall. An inter- Equisetum pratense Ehrh. esting later record is from ‘a road- Earball an Eich Dubharach Equisetum x trachyodon A.Braun side bog south of Creag Mhór’, on Shade Horsetail E. hyemale x E. variegatum the south side of Quinag, where it Mackay’s Horsetail was found in 1943 by M.S.Campbell. This locality was probably on the gneiss. 3

3 Equisetum fluviatile L. 2 Clois 2 Water Horsetail 1

1 0 1 2 3 3 0 1 2 3 4 tetrads. Rare. On the upper

2 reaches of the River Traligill it has 2 tetrads. This hybrid was first colonised a slope of earthy scree recorded by R.E.C.Ferreira, created by a landslip, with a much A.Scott and W.Henderson in 1984, 1 smaller group close at hand, on growing in a basic flush near the shingle at the water’s edge. A very Abhainn a’Chnocain, with E. good population grows on the variegatum nearby. Subsequently 0 1 2 3 Fucoid Beds on a rocky shelf it was noted by I.A.Macdonald in a above the Allt a’Bhealaich. In limestone flush at Lairig Unapool, 101 tetrads. The commonest considerably smaller quantity it at a site which also contains E. horsetail in the area. Found was found in dry heath on the edge hyemale. abundantly in lochs and on the of a burn, on the lower western margins of rivers and burns where slopes of Beinn an Fhuarain, in the there is slow-moving water. Also vicinity of limestone bands. First Equisetum variegatum Schleich. ex occurs frequently in bog and wet recorded in 1955 on the north side F.Weber & D.Mohr heath where there is no open of Quinag by M.E.D.Poore; found Earball an Eich Caol water. First recorded in 1894 ‘near in 1969 on the River Traligill by Variegated Horsetail Elphin and Ledbeg’ by M.G.Coulson and in 1983 by G.C.Druce. R.E.C.Ferreira in flushed grassland associated with ultra-basic rocks in the gneiss east of Achadh Mór. 3 Equisetum arvense L. We cannot find the source of a Earball an Eich record from Drumbeg given in Field Horsetail 2 Anthony.

1 Equisetum sylvaticum L. 3 Cuiridin Coille Wood Horsetail 0 1 2 3 2 92 tetrads. A misnomer in 6 tetrads. Rare, but may be quite Assynt, where we have not seen it prolific where it does occur. A 1 in woodland. The species is very characteristic habitat is the widespread, presumably able to fringe of vegetation jutting out thrive in the open on wet and dry over the water, at the edge of a 0 1 2 3 heath because of the high burn running through limestone atmospheric moisture. grassland, as for example the Allt 46 tetrads. On dry, disturbed ground along roadsides and in

67 Flora of Assynt

Botrychium lunaria (L.) Sw. Lus nam Mìos 3 3 Moonwort

2 2

3 1 1

2

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 1 It was first recorded in 1943, in a grassland, sometimes under light ‘rocky gulley north-east of bracken cover. In the hills, such Inverkirkaig’ by A.J.Wilmott and areas of grass with bracken are 0 1 2 3 M.S.Campbell. often indicative of earlier grazings

or cultivation which, being sited on 20 tetrads. The greatest the better soils, support a richer concentration of records is in the Equisetum palustre L. flora than the surrounding hill limestone areas, but the plant is Cuiridin ground. First recorded in 1943 also found in sandy coastal Marsh Horsetail from ‘machair at Achmelvich’ by grassland and dry heath grassland. M.S.Campbell. At least three of the sites are on roadsides, where the plant seems to have become established during 3 Ophioglossum azoricum C.Presl changes in the road pattern and has Teanga na Nathrach Beag survived because of the continuing Small Adder’s-tongue thinness of the vegetation on the 2 stony ground. An easily overlooked fern, which may well 1 be under-recorded because of its 3 small size. First recorded in 1886 by A.Gray as ‘abundant in 0 1 2 3 limestone districts…Durness- 2 Assynt’. 54 tetrads. Widespread in marshes, ditches, edges of burns 1 and rivers; also in places where OSMUNDACEAE there may temporarily be shallow standing water. First recorded in 0 1 2 3 1894 ‘near Elphin and Ledbeg’ by Osmunda regalis L. G.C.Druce. 1 tetrad. The only record made Raineach Rìoghail during the present survey was of Royal Fern more than 100 plants, growing in

PTEROPSIDA close turf near the edge of an 80m. Ferns cliff, near Cìrean Geardail, about 1km. south-west of the Old Man of 3 Stoer. It was first recorded by OPHIOGLOSSACEAE R.M.Corner in 1958 from coastal grassland near Raffin on the Stoer 2 peninsula, but was only determined as this species in 1978; Ophioglossum vulgatum L. 1 Teanga na Nathrach it is therefore not mentioned in Adder’s-tongue Anthony. We have attempted to re-find the plant at this site but 0 1 2 3 14 tetrads. Although far from without success, and it may well common, this small fern occupies a have succumbed to grazing 35 tetrads. Most frequent on low variety of habitats. It has been pressure during the intervening 40 ground where there is an found growing under heather, in years. abundance of acid lochs and burns. dune grassland, and in ‘sweet’ Cover provided by their overhanging margins gives the fern

68 Flowering plants and ferns necessary protection from grazing searches failed to produce the Cam has been found both north and animals, to which it is clearly very Loch plants. There are no records south of Assynt. A search, by attractive. The best stands are on in Anthony, who regarded it as A.C.Jermy in 1993, of suitable islands in lochs and we have never extinct in both West and East sites near Stoer Lighthouse and seen it growing on open un- Sutherland. First recorded in 1977 also inland locations in protected ground. First recorded in by D.H.N.Spence and E.D.Allen Torridonian boulder scree, proved 1886 by A.Gray, as ‘Assynt- on ‘a stony loch shore’ on Loch unsuccessful.] Stoer…very abundant in certain Borralan, where it was refound by localities…in spite of the tourist’; E.Charter in 1983. presumably a reference to the POLYPODIACEAE Victorians’ penchant for ferns. HYMENOPHYLLACEAE Polypodium vulgare L. ADIANTACEAE Clach-raineach Chaol Hymenophyllum wilsonii Hook. Common Polypody Raineach Còinnich Cryptogramma crispa R.Br. Wilson’s Filmy-fern Raineach Pheirsill Parsley Fern 3

3 Recorded in 1966 on ‘Quinag 2 NC22’ by A.G.Kenneth. It has not been seen since. 2 1

MARSILIACEAE 1 0 1 2 3

Pilularia globulifera L. 0 1 2 3 130 tetrads. An extremely Feur a’Phiobair common fern growing both in Pillwort 67 tetrads. The greatest density of woodland and unshaded situations, records is in the birch woodlands epiphytically, on rocks or on dry around the coast, where it grows ground. In the early years of the luxuriantly on large boulders and survey it was recorded only as an

3 tree stumps. Less characteristic aggregate. Latterly we checked for sites were found on the Stoer the presence of P. interjectum, but peninsula, where it was growing in in spite of this only one record was 2 turf in two places, firstly on the made. The map therefore north-facing side of a shallow represents all records apart from gully and secondly in the lee of this one. First recorded in 1767 1 large rocks on a very exposed near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. slope. Also unexpectedly, it was seen on Canisp, growing beneath 0 1 2 3 Arctostaphylos alpinus at 500m., Polypodium interjectum Shivas 4 tetrads. This represents two and deep in north-facing boulder (P. vulgare ssp. prionodes Rothm.) populations in each of two lochs. scree on Meallan Liath Mór. It is Clach-raineach Mheadhanach During the present survey it was likely that there are more records Western Polypody noted at the north-western end of to be made at altitude if only the Loch Borralan in 1988 and 1992 right habitats can be identified. and at two sites on Cam Loch, one First recorded from ‘Achumore’ in in 1992 and one in 1993. The Anderson (1834), and from the 3 plants are often in silty conditions gorge of Allt Poll an Droighinn by A.Gray in 1886. in the shelter of a bay. In some 2 instances the population continued out from the water on to the shore, but the significance of this is [Trichomanes speciosum Willd. 1 questionable, as loch levels can Raineach Chill Airne vary considerably. The Loch Killarney Fern Borralan populations were seen 0 1 2 3 again in 1999, but repeated The gametophyte of this species

69 Flora of Assynt

1 tetrad. Found in woodland at ASPLENIACEAE Rhicarn. See account of the preceding species. First confirmed 3 by A.C.Jermy from material Phyllitis scolopendrium (L.) collected in 1970 at Torgawn by Newman M.G.Coulson. 2 Teanga an Fhèidh Hart’s-tongue 1 DENNSTAEDTIACEAE

0 1 2 3 3 Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn Raineach Mhòr shelter and moisture. It can form Bracken quite dense and extensive colonies 2 on wet cliff ledges and in gullies It is a little less frequent in 1 limestone areas, but whether the 3 reason for this is the character of the substrate or lack of suitable 0 1 2 3 habitat is difficult to say. First 2 recorded in 1943 from ‘a gully 7 tetrads. An uncommon fern, not near Inverkirkaig’ and ‘rocks at the occurring anywhere in quantity. 1 south foot of Creag Mhór, Quinag’ Two of the records are from the by A.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. mortared stone walls of buildings at Ardvar and Rhicarn and two 0 1 2 3 from limestone cliffs and screes in Oreopteris limbosperma (Bellardi the Inchnadamph area. Of the 126 tetrads. Widespread and ex All.) Holub remainder, two tetrads lie on a common on well-drained sites in (Thelypteris oreopteris (Ehrh.) narrow outcrop of woodland and on moorland, only Slosson) limestone/Fucoid Beds in being absent from the higher hills. Crim-raineach woodland at Liath Bhad, on the Patches of bracken, in a landscape Lemon-scented Fern south side of Loch Glencoul, and otherwise clothed in heather, the fern also occurs abundantly on deergrass and rock, often mark the sea-cliff just over the parish sites of former cultivation, the boundary on a continuation of the grassland being invaded by the 3 same rock. A surprising discovery fern when active use of the area was 15-20 plants in a ‘horizontal diminished. As these grassy areas gryke’, in a basic dyke cutting would have been chosen for their 2 through the gneiss on the shore of fertility, it follows that they are Loch na h-Uidhe Doimhne, less usually richer in small herbs in 1 than a metre above the surface of spite of the bracken cover. First the water. First recorded in 1767 recorded in 1767 near near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 0 1 2 3 It was also noted in 1943, on the ‘wall of the Culag Hotel garden, 144 tetrads. One of the most Lochinver’ by A.J.Wilmott and THELYPTERIDACEAE widespread ferns in the parish, M.S.Campbell. found in moist but well-drained places in both woodland and Phegopteris connectilis (Michx.) moorland, always making use of Asplenium adiantum-nigrum L. Watt the shelter provided by cliffs, Raineach Uaine (Thelypteris phegopteris (L.) gorges and burn banks. First Black Spleenwort Slosson) recorded in 1767 near Raineach Fhaidhbhile Inchnadamph by J.Robertson as 86 tetrads. The most common Beech Fern ‘Acrostichum thelypteris’. fern on cliffs and outcrop rock, although less frequent on walls. 123 tetrads. Common and Found mostly on the gneiss, widespread in woodland and on sometimes on Torridonian rocky slopes, where there is both. sandstone but absent from many tetrads which lie on limestone.

70 Flowering plants and ferns

eastern shore of Loch an Aigeil ssp. quadrivalens D.E.Mey. with five plants noted and the other 3 not far away with more than 30 plants; at Creag Liath, 0.75km. from the sea, nine plants were 3 2 recorded on an inland cliff; 2.5 km. from the coast two tufts of the 2 1 fern were noted on a cliff on the eastern shore of Loch a‘Phollain Drisich; the most outstanding of 1 0 1 2 3 the inland sites, Creag Clais nan Cruineachd, is nearly 3km. from R.E.C.Ferreira has pointed out the the sea and the species occurs there 0 1 2 3 interesting association of this in two tetrads, two plants in one species with ultrabasic dykes and 26 countable ones, with others 21 tetrads For limitations in (Ferreira 1995). First recorded in too high to assess, in the other. recording see under the species. 1943 in three localities by First recorded in 1886 at Of the habitats represented on the A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. ‘Lochinver’ by A.Gray. map, two are mortared walls and four are limestone; gneiss and Torridonian sandstone are also Asplenium obovatum ssp. Asplenium trichomanes L. represented. lanceolatum (Fiori) P. da Silva Dubh-chasach Lus a’Chorrain Lannach Maidenhair Spleenwort Lanceolate Spleenwort Asplenium viride Huds. Ur-thalmhainn The first and only record is from Green Spleenwort Clachtoll, the most northerly 3 station from which it has been recorded in the British Isles. It 2 was found there on a gneiss crag, 3 west of Cnoc Beag, by 1 M.G.Coulson in 1969/70 and 2 identified by A.C..Jermy, but has not been seen since. 0 1 2 3 1

Asplenium marinum L. 95 tetrads. Widespread in shady Raineach na Mara situations on cliffs, crags and 0 1 2 3 Sea Spleenwort walls. Owing, it has to be confessed, to an inconsistency in 43 tetrads. A calcicole whose recording technique throughout the distribution, as will be seen from period of the survey, we are unable the map, corresponds to a great 3 to map A. trichomanes ssp. extent to that of the limestone trichomanes. The map above areas. Other sites are at the base of shows those records which were the Torridonian and where basic 2 only identified to species level. A. and ultrabasic dykes cut through trichomanes ssp. quadrivalens was the gneiss. The fern requires shelter and shade and can grow 1 noted during the second half of the survey and a map for that follows. luxuriantly where these conditions First recorded in 1943 on ‘rocks at are met. In some parts of Britain the south foot of Creag Mhór, this species favours high ground, 0 1 2 3 Quinag’ by A.J.Wilmott and but in the West of Scotland it is 33 tetrads. Found where there is M.S.Campbell. common at low levels. First suitable cliff habitat around the recorded in 1772 at ‘Creg-a- coast, particularly on the western chnocain’ by T.Pennant and shores of the parish where J.Lightfoot. exposure is greatest. It occurs in five inland sites: at Clachtoll are two sites approximately 0.5km. from the sea, one a cliff on the

71 Flora of Assynt

Asplenium ruta-muraria L. east. On an outcrop north of the Rù Bhallaidh gorge of the Allt an Tiaghaich, Wall-rue G.P.Rothero found eight tufts. 3

WOODSIACEAE 2 3 1 Athyrium filix-femina (L.) Roth 2 Raineach Moire Lady Fern 0 1 2 3 1 Found most often in rocky woodland where, in the shelter of 0 1 2 3 3 the rocks, its distinctive bright green fronds are easily seen. We 36 tetrads. Although the greatest have found it to be very sparse in concentration of records comes 2 limestone areas. However, the from rocks in the limestone areas, species was first recorded in 1767 the good scatter on the west side of 1 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson, the parish shows that it can tolerate and in 1894 G.C.Druce recorded a a variety of rock types, given form approaching G. robertianum sunshine and a degree of shelter 0 1 2 3 from Knockan Crags. provided by fissures. There are few records from walls. First 125 tetrads. Widespread and recorded in 1894 from Knockan common, but a little less Gymnocarpium robertianum crags by G.C.Druce. ubiquitous in limestone areas. (Hoffm.) Newman Will grow in the open, although (Thelypteris robertiana (Hoffm.) the most luxuriant specimens are Slosson) Asplenium septentrionale (L.) in sheltered burn valleys and Raineach Cloich-aoil Hoffm. gorges. Dies back very quickly in Limestone Fern Lus a’Chorrain Gòbhlach the autumn. First recorded in Forked Spleenwort 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 3

3 [Athyrium distentifolium Tausch ex Opiz 2 Raineach Moire Ailpeach 2 Alpine Lady-fern 1

1 There are vague records for this montane species from the 1950s 0 1 2 3 and 1980s on recording cards for 0 1 2 3 NC21, but either or both may refer 1 tetrad. Growing in some to the eastern side of Breabag, quantity on a ledge of the 4 tetrads. Not recorded in which is in v.c.106.] limestone cliffs of Creag Sròn Anthony for either West or East Chrùbaidh. It was first recorded Sutherland. The first record for (from this site) in 1951 by Assynt was made by A.Scott and Gymnocarpium dryopteris (L.) A.McG.Stirling. This is the most W.Henderson in 1991 in Gleannan Newman northerly site in Britain for the a’Mhadaidh, growing on the dark (Thelypteris dryopteris (L.) species and its only station in West rock of a basic dyke, which shows Slosson) Sutherland. on the south-facing wall of this Sgeamh Dharaich narrow, steep-sided valley. Oak Fern Another population, of 20+ plants, Cystopteris fragilis (L.) Bernh. was found by G.P.Rothero further 46 tetrads. Not a common species Frith-raineach along the same cliff. The other and usually only growing in small Brittle Bladder-fern sites are in similar situations. Five quantity where it does occur. plants and a single plant were 45 tetrads. A calcicole, found found on crags in two tetrads to the widely in crevices and screes on

72 Flowering plants and ferns

DRYOPTERIDACEAE

3 3 Dryopteris oreades Fomin (D. abbreviata (DC.) Newm.) 2 2 Marc-raineach an t-Slèibhne Mountain Male-fern 1 1 Not seen during the present survey. There is a record from Suilven 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 made by B.Flannigan in 1958. It is mapped in the first Atlas for NC02 limestone and the Fucoid Beds, limestone boulder scree at the foot and NC21; the former hectad less often on other rock types and of the cliffs of Creag Sròn seems to have little likely ground. occasionally on mortared walls. Chrùbaidh, where it still grows Always in moist, sheltered, shady with both parents. It is also found conditions. First recorded in 1767 at Inchnadamph, in an exclosure Dryopteris filix-mas (L.) Schott near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson on the limestone, where again both Marc-raineach and in 1943 on walls in Lochinver parents are present. Male-fern by M.S.Campbell.

Polystichum lonchitis (L.) Roth Polystichum aculeatum (L.) Roth Raineach Chuilinn 3 Ibhig Chruaidh Holly Fern Hard Shield-fern 2

3 1 3

2 0 1 2 3 2 1 52 tetrads. In woodland and 1 sheltered places amongst rocks. Not plentiful. First recorded in 0 1 2 3 1767 near Inchnadamph by 0 1 2 3 J.Robertson. 14 tetrads. Mainly on limestone 43 tetrads. Widespread, not only or the Fucoid Beds. Notable in limestone areas but also in the exceptions are associated with Dryopteris affinis (Lowe) Fraser- west, where its presence on the calcareous bands in the Jenk. gneiss is presumably due to base- Torridonian, one at 250m. on (D. borreri Newm.) rich pockets. Found in gorges, on north-facing crags south of Lochan Mearlag rock faces beside waterfalls and in Fada, the other at 350m. on east- Golden-scaled Male-fern boulder scree, but can be seen in facing crags above Lochan the greatest profusion on the Bealach Cornaidh; also, on similar vertical walls of pots and cave bands in the gneiss, at the foot of entrances in the limestone. First Sàil Ghorm. First recorded in 3 recorded in 1890 at Inchnadamph 1772 at ‘Creg-a-chnocain’ by by E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. T.Pennant and J.Lightfoot. 2

Polystichum x illyricum (Borbàs) 1 Hahne (P. aculeatum x P. lonchitis) Alpine Hybrid Shield-fern 0 1 2 3

2 tetrads. The second record for 89 tetrads. Common and the British Isles and the first for widespread, found in much more Scotland was made in Assynt in open situations than the preceding 1973 by A.McG.Stirling in species. Stands in sunny boulder

73 Flora of Assynt scree make a fine sight early in the Dryopteris dilatata (Hoffm.) year, when it is at its most A.Gray ‘golden’. First recorded in 1890 at Raineach nan Radan 3 Lochinver by E.S.Marshall and Broad Buckler-fern F.J.Hanbury, as ‘D. filix-mas var. paleacea’. Subspecies cambrensis 2 and borreri were recorded in the 1990s by C.E.K.Scouller. 3 1

2 Dryopteris aemula (Aiton) Kuntze 0 1 2 3 Raineach Phreasach Hay-scented Buckler-fern 1 It seems impervious to exposure and manages to thrive almost anywhere, although only 0 1 2 3 producing fertile fronds under 3 favourable conditions. First 146 tetrads. An abundant fern of recorded during the 1950s survey shady places in woodland or in the for the first Atlas. 2 shelter of rocks. Absent from some tetrads in limestone areas. 1 First recorded in 1894 at Knockan PINOPSIDA Crags by G.C.Druce. Conifers

0 1 2 3 Dryopteris expansa (C.Presl) PINACEAE 26 tetrads. We have found it to be Fraser-Jenk. & Jermy a not infrequent component of the (D. assimilis S.Walker) ground flora of rocky woodland, Raineach nan Radan Thuatach There are three main types of always in sheltered, shady Northern Buckler-fern conifer plantings. Firstly the situations. First recorded from ‘Inver Woods’ and Culag Wood NC03V in 1990. (the latter now a Communiy Woodland) which have a major 3 conifer component, as well as Dryopteris carthusiana (Vill.) some hardwoods. Secondly, a H.P.Fuchs 2 more extensive, commercial (D. lanceolatacristata (Hoffm.) forestry plantation, planted in the Alston) mid 1980s at Ledmore, mostly in Raineach Chaol 1 NC21. Thirdly, a number of small Narrow Buckler-fern estate plantings, visible from the road between Inchnadamph and 0 1 2 3 Ledmore, which were made about

the middle of the 20th century to 26 tetrads. Thinly distributed. 3 provide deer shelter. There is also Most often in scree or in well- an estate plantation just north-east sheltered positions between of Glencanisp Lodge. Species in 2 outcrop rocks. First recorded in these three groups have been 1955 at Achmelvich by J.Anthony. mapped because of their general

1 ecological significance in the

landscape. BLECHNACEAE 0 1 2 3

2 tetrads. Very rare. Found once Blechnum spicant (L.).Roth at Knockan and once by wet rocks Raineach Chruaidh at Stoer. First recorded during the Hard Fern 1950s survey for the first Atlas. The Fern Atlas maps it for NC01, 154 tetrads. Almost ubiquitous. 02, 12, 22 and 23, suggesting that It would be difficult to name a it may have been under-recorded habitat from which this species has during the present survey. not been recorded.

74 Flowering plants and ferns

Abies procera Rehder 13 tetrads. Well suited to the high Pinus sylvestris L. Noble Fir rainfall of the area and therefore Giuthas widely used in commercial Scots Pine plantings, as well as in mixed amenity woodland. It is 3 regenerating naturally in an extensive open area in the ‘Inver 3 Woods’, from the seed source of 2 mature trees nearby. 2 1 Picea abies (L.) H.Karst 1 Giuthas Lochlannach 0 1 2 3 Norway Spruce

0 1 2 3 1 tetrad. There are occasional trees in the amenity woodlands 10 tetrads. The trees on the surrounding Glencanisp Lodge and 3 islands in Loch Assynt were once also a few on the edge of a nearby thought to be remnants of original plantation. pine forest, but it is now known 2 that this is not the case. This species is the one most commonly Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) 1 planted in a non-commercial Franco context and in many places does Douglas Fir indeed look ‘natural’. First 0 1 2 3 recorded in 1767 by J.Robertson.

5 tetrads. Distribution much as 3 for Picea sitchensis, although less Pinus contorta Douglas ex Loudon widely planted. Similar also in its Lodgepole Pine occurrence as self-sown specimens 2 in the open area in ‘Inver Woods’ alongside the river. 1 3

Larix decidua Mill. 2 0 1 2 3 Learag European Larch 1 tetrad. A small number has 1 been planted in the immediate vicinity of an old house on the edge of Culag Wood, but not in a 3 0 1 2 3 commercial forestry context. 6 tetrads. As this is the pine most 2 suited to Assynt’s soil and climate, Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carrière it has been extensively used in the Giuthas Siotga 1 large-scale commercial plantations Sitka Spruce at Ledmore and in amenity plantings elsewhere. 0 1 2 3

3 3 tetrads. Trees in the ‘Inver CUPRESSACEAE Woods’ and a small group of old trees alongside the road at 2 Inchnadamph have been mapped. Juniperus communis L. First recorded during the 1950s Aiteann 1 survey for the first Atlas. Juniper

89 tetrads. A very widespread 0 1 2 3 species, although there is great

75 Flora of Assynt variation in quantity in different to wave action. With its rather areas, which may in some cases specific depth requirement of 0.5– reflect the history of burning. The 1.5m., the pattern of Nymphaea in 3 area around and south of Loch a small loch may reflect the contours of the loch floor. The result is concentric rings of water- 2 lilies, backed by emergent 3 vegetation and fronted perhaps by 1 pondweeds. It is most widespread in areas of small acid lochs and 2 absent from the limestone lochs 0 1 2 3 such as Mhaolach-coire, Urigill, 1 Borralan and Awe. First recorded First recorded in 1886 at at Kylesku in Anderson (1834). ‘Achumore’ by A.Gray.

0 1 2 3 RANUNCULACEAE Anemone nemorosa L. Poll Dhàidh is particularly rich in Flùr na Gaoithe Juniper and there are some well Wood Anemone grown bushes there, which must be Caltha palustris L. of a considerable age. No really Lus Buidhe Bealltainn upright individuals have been seen, Marsh-marigold although a few old, spreading 3 ones, growing up against a steep bank, may appear to be so. As 2 intermediates between the two 3 subspecies are known to occur elsewhere, we have only recorded 1 the species, although it does seem 2 that our bushes show strong affinities to ssp. nana. First 1 0 1 2 3 recorded in 1767 by J.Robertson. 37 tetrads. Not common and often 0 1 2 3 thinly distributed where it does MAGNOLIOPSIDA occur. Only a small percentage of Flowering Plants 74 tetrads. Usually a plant of the records come from woodland; lowland marshes and the edge of boulder scree, bracken and even rivers and lochs, but has also been heather can provide the necessary NYMPHACEAE recorded at a height of over 600m. shelter and stony loch shores are on the headwaters of burns also favoured. A high proportion draining off Breabag. Absent from of the plants do not flower. First Nymphaea alba L. much of the interior, where small recorded in 1767 near Duilleag-bhàite Bhàn acid lochs and burns predominate. Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. White Water-lily First recorded as ‘C. radicans’ (now var. radicans) in 1907 ‘by a stream at Inchnadamph’ by Ranunculus acris L. G.C.Druce. Buidheag an t-Samhraidh

3 Meadow Buttercup

Trollius europaeus L. 154 tetrads. Grows in most grassy 2 Leolaicheann places: fields, light woodland, Globeflower roadsides, fanks, and patches along 1 the edge of burns. The missing dot 86 tetrads. A component of base- is in the most botanically poor of rich, usually wet, grassland and of all the tetrads, NC21I, lying on the tall-herb vegetation on inland 0 1 2 3 quartzite on the lower slopes of cliff ledges. From sea level to over Canisp. 70 tetrads. Grows in sheltered 600m. waters, small lochs or bays of larger ones, where it is not exposed

76 Flowering plants and ferns

grassland alongside a fence. Its growing actually in the water. scarcity in what appears to be a First recorded in 1767 near 3 suitable habitat may be due to Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. blow-outs in, and subsequent Subspecies scoticus was recorded restoration of, the grassland at the in 1889 at Lochan Feòir by 2 back of the dunes there. First E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury, and recorded in 1984 by in 1976 by U.K.Duncan at the 1 M.McC.Webster in the north-western end of Loch Achmelvich area. Borralan.

0 1 2 3 [Ranunculus arvensis L. Ranunculus ficaria L. First recorded in 1767 near Corn Buttercup Searragaich Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Lesser Celandine There is a dubious record made in 1972 from NC22.] Ranunculus repens L. Buidheag 3 Creeping Buttercup Ranunculus auricomus L. Gruag Moire Goldilocks Buttercup 2

3 1

3 2 0 1 2 3

2 1 102 tetrads. Common in two rather different habitats; not only 1 in damp sheltered ditches, marshes 0 1 2 3 and wet woodland, but also as a component of the sward of sunny 108 tetrads. Wet woodland, 0 1 2 3 grassy slopes, perhaps with a light grassland, marshes, roadside shading of bracken. First recorded verges and waste places. Absent 1 tetrad. The first and only record in 1767 near Inchnadamph by from some of the higher and more is from Eilean na Gartaig, known J.Robertson. remote ground. First recorded in locally as ‘Garlic Island’, in Cam 1767 near Inchnadamph by Loch, where a population was J.Robertson. found in 1994 by T.Keatinge. [Ranunculus hederaceus L. Fleann Uisge Eidheannach Ivy-leaved Water-crowfoot Ranunculus bulbosus L. Ranunculus flammula L. Fuile-thalmhainn Glaisleun Not seen during the present survey. Bulbous Buttercup Lesser Spearwort Although recorded for Assynt in Anthony (but with no further details), it was not mapped for any local hectads in the first Atlas.] 3 3

[Ranunculus baudotii Godr. 2 2 Fleann Uisge Shaillte Brackish Water-crowfoot 1 1 Not seen during the present survey. A record of ‘var.marinus’ at 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 Achmelvich is listed in A.G.Kenneth’s botanical notebook 1 tetrad. The only record made 152 tetrads. Widespread and for 1961, identified by ‘Miss during the present survey was in abundant in wet places: ditches, Muirhead’. This species does 2001 at Achmelvich. A small marshes, the margins of lochs, occur on the Uists, but a form of quantity was found in dune burns and rivers; sometimes

77 Flora of Assynt

R. trichophyllus, with some First recorded in 1886 at Clachtoll Papaver dubium L. characters of R. baudotii, has been by A.Gray. Recorded from NC13 Crom-lus Fad-cheannach noted at Stoer.] in the 1950s survey for the first Long-headed Poppy Atlas.

Ranunculus trichophyllus Chaix Lìon na h-Aibhne Thalictrum alpinum L. 3 Thread-leaved Water-crowfoot Rù Ailpeach Alpine Meadow-rue 2

3 1 3

2 0 1 2 3 2 1 1 tetrad. A rare casual of 1 disturbed ground, found at Lochinver in 1996. First recorded 0 1 2 3 in Anthony, but with no further 0 1 2 3 details. 3 tetrads. The three records are from adjacent sites: firstly a small, 68 tetrads. Widespread in open rich burn running from Loch an hill country, where it can be found Meconopsis cambrica (L.) Vig. Aigeil across dune grassland to the on the edge of wet stony flushes Crom-lus Cuimreach sea, secondly a broad, shallow, wet and in grassland along the margins Welsh Poppy ditch, some yards from the edge of of burns, ascending to over 600m. this loch and thirdly, a nearby on Quinag. It is particularly drain leading to the shore. The frequent in limestone areas; burn has recently been dredged elsewhere it indicates a degree of 3 mechanically and it remains to be base-richness. First recorded in seen whether or not the species 1767 near Inchnadamph by survives there. First reported in J.Robertson. 2 1943 from ‘lochan at Stoer’ but ‘without flower and needing 1 confirmation’ by A.J.Wilmott and PAPAVERACEAE M.S.Campbell. The modern record has provided that 0 1 2 3 confirmation. Papaver somniferum L. Lus a’Chadail 5 tetrads. Only found in the Opium Poppy immediate vicinity of past or Thalictrum minus L. contemporary dwellings. Rù Beag Naturalised as a garden escape or Lesser Meadow-rue relic of cultivation. 3

FUMARIACEAE 2 3

1 Ceratocapnos claviculata (L.) 2 Liden (Corydalis claviculata (L.) DC. 1 0 1 2 3 Fliodh an Tughaidh Climbing Corydalis 2 tetrads. A rare casual, turning 0 1 2 3 up erratically in waste and 3 tetrads. Rare and unpredictable. disturbed ground, its distribution The records come from open rocky 4 tetrads. At Achmelvich, probably changing from year to woodland at Duart, under bracken Clachtoll and Stoer in sandy year. First recorded in 1996 at on an open hillside at Port coastal grassland, a habitat of Lochinver and later at Clachtoll. Dhrombaig and in stone piles not which there is little in Assynt. far from the road at Nedd.

78 Flowering plants and ferns

URTICACEAE

3 3 Urtica dioica L. Deanntag 2 2 Common Nettle

1 1

3 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3

First recorded in 1886 at Elphin by First recorded in 1943 as ‘a weed 2 A.Gray; also in 1953/4 on the main in the garden of Culag Hotel, island in Loch Beannach by Lochinver’ by A.J.Wilmott and 1 D.N.McVean. M.S.Campbell; also in 1969/70 at Clachtoll by M.G.Coulson. 0 1 2 3 Fumaria bastardii Boreau Fuaim an t-Siorraimh Ard ULMACEAE 92 tetrads. Found in all the Tall Ramping-fumitory expected places, such as roadside verges and habitations, both Ulmus glabra Huds. contemporary and ruined. Nettles Leamhan persist long after abandonment of 3 Wych Elm the sheilings, fanks and other ruins in whose vicinity they were first established, and so may still be 2 found in some very remote areas. 3 They do not just indicate soil 1 enrichment, but also an earlier presence of man and his stock. 2 First recorded, as ‘var. horrida’, in 0 1 2 3 1943 at Stoer by A.J.Wilmott and 1 M.S.Campbell. 2 tetrads. The records come from two vegetable plots (lying in different tetrads), belonging to a 0 1 2 3 Urtica urens L. converted croft house at Clachtoll. Deanntag Bhliadhnail During the survey a probable F. 30 tetrads. Only occasionally Small Nettle bastardii, too young to identify found in woodland. With the with certainty, was seen at exception of the Culag River Achmelvich, but a return visit in gorge, where there are a number of 2000 found no trace of the plant. young specimens, the majority of 3 The first record was made in 1956 the records are of single trees. at Achmelvich by R.M.Graham They may grow on the edge of a and R.M.Harley and it was seen watercourse, in a gorge, or on an 2 there again in 1959 by J.Anthony. inland cliff, sometimes a long way from any other elm tree and posing 1 an interesting question as to how Fumaria officinalis L. they arrived in such inaccessible ssp. officinalis places. First recorded in 1767 near 0 1 2 3 Lus Deathach-thalmhainn Inchnadamph by J.Robertson; his Common Fumitory comment ‘on precipices where 2 tetrads. A species that may have there had never been plantations’ become less frequent with the 1 tetrad. The record comes from a (Balfour 1907) reflects concern as reduction of cultivated land. It potato patch in Clachtoll (not from to whether the species was native, was found on a rubbish dump at the same place as F. bastardii). which continued for over a Balchladich and in sandy grassland century. at the back of the shore, in the immediate vicinity of holiday chalets, at Culkein Stoer; a second

79 Flora of Assynt search at the end of the survey and Lochinver. The mixed well grown specimens of failed to re-find it at the latter site. plantings alongside the River Inver petraea…by the roadside west of First recorded in 1886 at include an extensive open area; Loch Assynt Lodge’, which is Achmelvich by A.Gray, and in here beech is regenerating probably the same group as seen 1894 near Elphin and Ledbeg by naturally from mature trees nearby. by Gray. Anthony hedges his bets, G.C.Druce. There is also a 1950s First recorded as ‘beach’ in 1774, recording both species for Assynt. record from NC02 and one in 1972 at Tubeg, on the south side of Loch from NC22. Assynt, by J.Home. The We have attempted to identify a plantations near Lochinver were selection of trees from throughout established by the time of the parish. Since oaks fruit only MYRICACEAE A.Gray’s visit in 1886. rarely this far north, we have had to rely almost entirely on leaf characters, using the excellent Myrica gale L. Quercus spp. tables and illustrations in Wigston Roid Oaks (1975). The heterogeneity of the Bog-myrtle local population is illustrated by a sample of twelve trees at the foot of Creag Dharaich on the east side 3 of Loch Nedd. The only one 3 bearing acorns was confidently assigned to Q. petraea; another 2 was thought, because of the 2 absence of stellate hairs and other 1 characters, to be close to Q. robur. 1 All the rest were intermediate, and are best perhaps regarded as Q .x rosacea? It is for this reason that 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 we have not mapped the three taxa 20 tetrads. Oaks are largely separately. We have detailed 110 tetrads. Widespread and confined to the west and north records of where oaks can be common over much of the acid hill coasts of Assynt, where they are found in the parish, and would be country where conditions are usually found on south-facing pleased to help in their further suitably damp. Probably not over rocky slopes, often in association investigation. 500m. First recorded in 1767 near with aspen and hazel. There are Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. two main concentrations. The first is from Inverkirkaig north to BETULACEAE Achmelvich, with particularly fine FAGACEAE old trees on croft ground at Baddidarach. They occur again Betula pendula Roth from Pollachapuill, where there are Beith Dhubhach Fagus sylvatica L. ancient coppice stools, through to Silver Birch Faidhbhile the shores of Loch Nedd, with Beech isolated outliers at Ardvar and There are records made during the Unapool. There is a further scatter 1950s survey for the first Atlas for of trees on the north shore of Loch NC02, 20 and 22 and another in Assynt and in adjacent areas. 1981 for NC13. All are probably 3 of planted trees, as is almost Opinions on their precise identity certainly the case with the small 2 differ. The first record made in group which we noted on the south 1767 near Inchnadamph by bank of the River Inver. J.Robertson, is of Q. robur, as are 1 subsequent records in 1886 at ‘Loch Letteressie’ by A.Gray, and Betula pubescens Ehrh. in 1943 at Lochinver and Drumbeg Beith Charraigeach 0 1 2 3 by A.J.Wilmott and Downy Birch

M.S.Campbell.However, 2 tetrads. Introduced. Occasional D.N.McVean (1958) identified a 121 tetrads. By far the trees planted in gardens have not single tree on the main island in commonest tree in the area, been mapped, only those in Loch Beannach as Q. petraea and although not the one found at the plantations or in a significant W.Yapp (1961) remarks on a ‘few greatest altitude; the Gaelic nam acreage of grounds as at Ledmore

80 Flowering plants and ferns

hazel in the recently planted crofter forestry schemes, thus 3 3 ensuring its continued presence. First recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 2 2

1 1 CHENOPODIACEAE

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 Chenopodium rubrum L. Red Goosefoot ‘Beith’ often figures in the names flourishing on islands in the latter, of topographical features where it is free from grazing. Not seen during the present survey. Woodlands which are almost There are two Assynt lochs called First recorded in 1886 at entirely birch usually have a poor Lochan Fearna; they no longer Lochinver by A.Gray. ground flora; those with an have alders on their margins. This admixture of hazel, holly, rowan or is another species used frequently aspen are often more interesting. in crofter forestry plantings and Chenopodium murale L. The new crofter forestry schemes will in future be more widespread. Praiseach a’Bhalla all have Downy Birch as one of the First recorded in 1953/54 on the Nettle-leaved Goosefoot constituents and so the species will ‘main island’ in Loch Beannach by in the future occur in greater D.N.McVean. Not seen during the present survey. quantity than today. First First recorded in 1969 on the shore recorded, at some thirty sites, in at Clachtoll by M.G.Coulson. 1774 by J.Home. Subspecies Corylus avellana L. tortuosa was recorded by Calltuinn

E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury in Hazel Chenopodium album L. 1890 on ‘an islet in Loch Awe’. Càl Slapach A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell Fat-hen (1946) express some doubt as to whether the northern species is in 3 fact the same as the southern species known as B. pubescens. 3 There is a further record of ssp. 2 tortuosa from NC22 in 1969. 1 2

Betula nana L. 1 Beith Bheag 0 1 2 3 Dwarf Birch 75 tetrads. Hazel woodlands can be seen at their best along the 0 1 2 3 This species was recorded ‘in a north coast of Assynt, where they single station higher up on 2 tetrads. A rare casual, recorded clothe the hillsides coming down Canisp’, in association with once from a garden at Clachtoll to the sea, producing some of our Vaccinium uliginosum and V. vitis- and once from a smallholding at most attractive scenery. It does idaea, by A.G.Kenneth in 1985. Achmelvich. First recorded in not tolerate exposure to strong The southern half of NC2018 1886 at Inverkirkaig by A.J.Gray; wind and outside a woodland seems the most likely area, but it subsequently at Lochinver in 1890 situation is most often found in the has not yet been refound. by E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury shelter of gorges and on the lee and in ‘cornfields’ at ‘Elphin and side of inland cliffs. In crofting Knockain’ in 1894 by G.C.Druce. areas, in the past, it was an Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn. important source of firewood and Feàrna stock was kept away from newly Alder developing coppice shoots. This is

not the case today and hazel 28 tetrads. Grows occasionally on woodlands will inevitably the edge of burns and lochs, deteriorate, as some wood is still cut but grazing is uncontrolled. A hopeful sign is the presence of

81 Flora of Assynt

Atriplex prostrata Boucher ex DC. this species (Taschereau 1985). present survey. First recorded in (A. hastata L.) Another, found at Kylestrome (just 1962, from the side of a stream in Praiseach Mhìn Leathann outside the parish) in 1970, was Stoer by M.Reid. Spear-leaved Orache confirmed by the same author; it may therefore occur more widely. Montia fontana L. Fliodh Uisge 3 Atriplex patula L. Blinks Praiseach Mhìn Chaol Common Orache 2 3 1 3 2

0 1 2 3 2 1 9 tetrads. Only one record was from cultivated ground. The 1 remainder were coastal, growing 0 1 2 3 above the high tide line on sandy or shingle beaches. First recorded 0 1 2 3 92 tetrads. Grows abundantly for NC02 during the 1950s survey almost anywhere that is sheltered, for the first Atlas. 3 tetrads. Uncommon. There is wet and/or muddy. Ditches, small one record from disturbed ground burns, muddy flushes, water- on a roadside verge at Elphin and logged tracks and gardens. First Atriplex glabriuscula Edmonston two from coastal habitats at Loch recorded in 1767 near Praiseach Mhìn Cladaich Ardbhair and Drumbeg. First Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Babington’s Orache recorded during the 1950s survey Material collected since 1936 in for the first Atlas from NC02 and NC02, 21 and 22 has all been NC12. Taschereau (1985) maps determined as ssp. fontana. one pre-1970s record from NC02. 3 CARYOPHYLLACEAE Atriplex spp. 2 Orache Arenaria serpyllifolia L. 1 We have been notably Lus nan Naoi Alt Tìomach unsuccessful in identifying this Thyme-leaved Sandwort genus! Apart from the four species 0 1 2 3 dealt with above, there remain a considerable number of plants, 6 tetrads. All the records are from especially from shorelines, to 3 coastal habitats. It occurs above which we were unable to put a the high tide line on sand and name, sometimes because they 2 shingle beaches, or on disturbed were not at the right stage, but at ground in the immediate vicinity other times because they did not of the shore. First recorded in appear to correspond adequately to 1 1890 at Lochinver by E.S.Marshall any one species. and F.J.Hanbury. 0 1 2 3 PORTULACACEAE Atriplex praecox Hülph. 5 tetrads. An uncommon plant Praiseach Mhìn Thràth found near the coast, once in a Early Orache Claytonia sibirica L. garden, but otherwise in sandy (Montia sibirica (L.) Howell) grassland, at Achmelvich, Not seen during the present survey. Seachranaiche Clachtoll and Oldany. Three of A specimen collected at Lochinver Pink Purslane the five records were identified as in 1890 by E.S.Marshall and ssp. serpyllifolia. First recorded F.J.Hanbury has been confirmed as Introduced. Not seen during the during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas.

82 Flowering plants and ferns

Arenaria norvegica Gunnerus shore, less often on sandy beaches. disturbed, weedy areas. First ssp. norvegica Found at Achmelvich, recorded during the 1950s survey Lus nan Naoi Alt Lochlannach Balchladich, Clashnessie, Culkein for the first Atlas. Arctic Sandwort Stoer, Imirfada and Oldany. First recorded in 1886 at Clachtoll by A.Gray and also, during the 1950s Stellaria neglecta Weihe survey for the first Atlas, from Fliodh Mhòr 3 NC13. Greater Chickweed

Not seen during the present survey. 2 Minuartia sedoides (L.) Hiern First recorded in 1890 on a ‘ditch- (Cherleria sedoides L.) side, Inchnadamph’ by 1 Lus an Tuim Chòinnich E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. Cyphel Reported also in 1969 from NC02 by M.G.Coulson. 0 1 2 3

6 tetrads. This Red Data Book 3 Stellaria holostea L. plant is a calcicole, confined to the Tùrsach Cambrian limestone at 2 Greater Stitchwort Inchnadamph and the gravels of the River Loanan which drains the limestone. In the Inchnadamph 1 area it is at its most frequent on 3 limestone at Cnoc Eilid Mhathain, but has also been recorded from 0 1 2 3 2 Creag nan Uamh, Bealach Traligill 14 tetrads. Found regularly on the and from rocks beside the River upper slopes of Canisp, the Traligill. The River Loanan, just 1 south of where it is joined by the Conival/Breabag complex, Cnoc River Traligill, follows a very Eilid Mhathain, Glas Bheinn and Quinag. First recorded in 1907 by sinuous course and the margins on 0 1 2 3 some of the stronger bends are G.C.Druce as ‘plentiful on Ben heavily gravelled. When the water Mor, Assynt 108’ (probably 29 tetrads. Occurs only in the is high, the course of the river and Conival). lowlands, where it grows beneath the precise site of the gravels can trees or scrub and occasionally in change slightly and the populations ditches. First recorded during the of Arenaria become shifted. First Stellaria media (L.) Vill. 1950s survey for the first Atlas. recorded in 1886 at Inchnadamph Fliodh by A.Gray. Common Chickweed Stellaria graminea L. Tursarain Honckenya peploides (L.) Ehrh. Lesser Stitchwort Lus a’Ghoill 3 Sea Sandwort 2 3

1 3 2

2 0 1 2 3 1

62 tetrads. An abundant plant, 1 given the right habitat of open or 0 1 2 3 cultivated ground. It is clear from the map that most records come 19 tetrads. Occasional, sprawling 0 1 2 3 from the vicinity of roads and amongst the long grass of roadside 6 tetrads. Thinly distributed on habitations, but it is also common verges or marshes. Less common shingle and stony stretches of along the coast, where it may grow than the preceding species. First at the back of the shore in

83 Flora of Assynt recorded during the 1950s survey Cerastium fontanum Baumg. for the first Atlas. (C. holosteoides Fr.) Cluas Luch Choitcheann 3 Common Mouse-ear Stellaria uliginosa Murray (S. alsine Grimm) 2 Flige Bog Stitchwort 3 1

2 0 1 2 3 3 1 First recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 2 0 1 2 3 1 Cerastium semidecandrum L. 131 tetrads. Common and Cluas Luch Bheag widespread in a variety of habitats: Little Mouse-ear 0 1 2 3 grassland, light woodland, waste and disturbed ground, and Seen once, in NC02M, during the 87 tetrads. Abundant in wet cultivated areas. A form with present survey. First recorded places; marshes and ditches, both conspicuously large flowers has from NC02 during the 1950s shaded and in the open. First been noted at about 600m. beside survey for the first Atlas. recorded during the 1950s survey burns on the ridge between Beinn for the first Atlas. Uidhe and Conival. First recorded during the 1950s survey for the Sagina nodosa (L.) Fenzl first Atlas. Mungan Snaimte [Cerastium arvense L. Knotted Pearlwort Cluas Luch Achaidh Field Mouse-ear Cerastium glomeratum Thuill. Cluas Luch Fhàireagach A report in 1969/70 from Beinn Sticky Mouse-ear 3 nan Cnaimhseag may have been a large-flowered form of C. fontanum.] 2 3 1 Cerastium arcticum Lange 2 Cluas Luch Artach Arctic Mouse-ear 0 1 2 3 1 Not seen during the present survey. 4 tetrads. Rare. Usually in damp First recorded in 1899 by or wet sandy grassland near the C.E.Salmon from ‘Canisp, at about 0 1 2 3 sea, but also south of Newton on a

2500ft., scarce’. A specimen roadside verge. Found at three 29 tetrads. Thinly scattered. collected by him on 31st July of sites at Clachtoll, one of which Confined to roadside verges and that year is labelled ‘Conival’ was grassy fissures in the disturbed ground. First recorded (which could be in v.c.108 or Torridonian seacliffs, and also at during the 1950s survey for the v.c.107). No v.c.108 records have Stoer. First recorded in 1886 at first Atlas. appeared since then, but the Achmelvich by A.Gray and still to species was recorded from the east be found there in 1943. side of Conival (v.c.107) by Cerastium diffusum Pers. E.S.Marshall and W.A.Shoolbred (C. atrovirens Bab.) in 1908, and refound there by Sagina subulata (Sw.) C.Presl Cluas Luch Mara D.A.Ratcliffe in 1959. Mungan Mòintich Sea Mouse-ear Heath Pearlwort

12 tetrads. Occasional in sandy 15 tetrads. In open sandy or grassland near the sea. gravelly ground and occasionally

84 Flowering plants and ferns

Recorded from NC22 in the 1950s survey for the first Atlas and, as 3 ‘ssp. erecta’, in 1969 from Stoer 3 Point and Allt nan Uamh.

2 2 Sagina maritima Don 1 Mungan Mara 1 Sea Pearlwort

0 1 2 3 Not seen during the present survey. 0 1 2 3 First recorded in 1953 at on rock. Var. glabrata was found Clachtoll/Stoer by M.S.Campbell First recorded from NC02 during once, growing on the bridge over and also, at about the same time, at the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. the burn that runs out of Loch Achmelvich. Dubh. First recorded in 1899 ‘near foot of Coinnemheall’ by Spergularia marina (L.) Griseb. C.E.Salmon, and in 1907 at Spergula arvensis L. Corran Mara Beag Inchnadamph by G.C.Druce. Cluain-lìn Lesser Sea-spurrey Corn Spurrey

[Sagina saginoides (L.) H.Karst. Mungan Ailpeach 3 Alpine Pearlwort 3

Reported by J.Anthony from ‘sea 2 cliffs near Stoer’ in 1959 (Anthony 2 1967). The herbarium specimen 1 has since been re-determined as S. 1 subulata var. glabrata.] 0 1 2 3

0 1 2 3 Sagina procumbens L. 7 tetrads. Mostly found at Mungan Làir 10 tetrads. Occurs very sparsely roadsides, on the gravelly edge of Procumbent Pearlwort on cultivated and disturbed the verge. One record comes from ground. Rather more surprisingly a saltmarsh and one from the deck it was found on rocky parts of the of the long-abandoned Kylesku shore of Cam Loch and Loch ferry. First recorded, as 3 Urigill. First recorded in 1894 in ‘S. salina’, in 1943 in a ‘saltmarsh ‘cornfields at Elphin and by Oldany River, west of Knockain’ by G.C.Druce and Drumbeg’ by A.J.Wilmott and 2 again, in 1899, in a ‘cultivated M.S.Campbell. field, Inchnadamph’ by C.E 1 Salmon. Also recorded in 1981 in NC13. Spergularia rubra (L.) J.& C.Presl Corran Gainmhich 0 1 2 3 Sand-spurrey Spergularia media (L.) C.Presl 132 tetrads. Abundant in a wide Corran Mara Mòr variety of habitats: on rock, paths, Greater Sea-spurrey open or disturbed ground at 3 roadsides; in short grass, marsh 5 tetrads. The records come from and scree. First recorded in 1767 saltmarsh at Achmelvich and 2 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Glenleraig, the strand line at Newton and Oldany and disturbed ground near the sea at Lochinver. 1 Sagina apetala Ard. Mungan Annual Pearlwort 0 1 2 3

Not seen during the present survey.

85 Flora of Assynt

6 tetrads. All records are from Silene acaulis (L.) Jacq. Clachtoll and Ardvar. First roadsides, on the gravelly edge of Coirean Còinnich recorded from NC02 and 03 during the verge. First recorded in 1990 Moss Campion the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. from the roadside at Gleann Ardbhair. Silene x hampeana Meusel & 3 K.Werner Lychnis flos-cuculi L. S. latifolia x S. dioica Caorag Lèana Ragged-Robin 2 Not seen during the present survey. First recorded in 1955 from NC02 1 by P.H.Davis.

3 0 1 2 3 Silene dioica (L.) Clairv. Cìrean Coilich 2 15 tetrads. Recorded from a Red Campion number of the higher hills, often 1 growing on limestone. Sites include Quinag, Glas Bheinn, Breabag and limestone rocks at 3 0 1 2 3 Knockan and Allt nan Uamh. First recorded in 1886 at Knockan by 44 tetrads. A lowland plant of wet A.Gray. Also, in 1899 by 2 places, roadside ditches and C.E.Salmon on the ‘north slopes of riverside marshes. First recorded Canisp’. 1 in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Silene quadrifida (L.) L. 0 1 2 3 Alpine Campion Silene uniflora Roth 19 tetrads. At least a quarter of (S. maritima With.) A component of the Inchnadamph the records are from sea cliffs Coirean na Mara ‘zoo’. Introduced and maintaining where, safe from grazing, the Sea Campion itself on a limestone outcrop at plants flower freely and the splash Glac Mhór. (See also records of of crimson against the rock catches Campanula, Erinus, Gentiana and the eye. Other sites are woodland, Phyteuma). A single flower was scrub and occasionally in ditches. 3 identified by C.I.Pogson and First recorded in 1767 near A.J.Underhill, who photographed Inchnadamph by J.Robertson; also it at this site in 1997. in 1953/4 on the ‘main island in 2 Loch Beannach’ by D.N.McVean.

1 Silene latifolia Poir. (S. alba (Mill.) E.H.L.Krause) POLYGONACEAE Coirean Bàn 0 1 2 3 White Campion Persicaria vivipara (L.) Ronse 23 tetrads. The records are from Decr. sea cliffs, apart from two inland (Polygonum viviparum L.) montane sites. One of these, at 3 Biolur Ailpeach 700m. on the Ben Uidhe ridge, is Alpine Bistort almost pure scree and the other, at 450m. on Beinn an Fhuarain, is 2 25 tetrads. Common in limestone very sparse montane heath. First grassland, as at Inchadamph, recorded during the 1950s survey 1 Elphin and Knockan; there is one for the first Atlas. record on gneiss, in a ravine on the headwaters of the Allt Poll an 0 1 2 3 Droighinn.

2 tetrads. Rarely seen. Our records are of garden weeds at

86 Flowering plants and ferns

13 tetrads. A plant of open, 1991, in sandy beach shingle in cultivated or disturbed ground, its Clachtoll Bay, by F.Rose. 3 distribution following the line of roads and habitations. First recorded during the 1950s survey Polygonum arenastrum Boreau 2 for the first Atlas. Glùineach Ghainmhich Equal-leaved Knotgrass 1 Persicaria lapathifolia (L.)Gray (Polygonum lapathifolium L.) 0 1 2 3 3 Not seen during the present survey. First recorded in 1767 near First recorded in 1886 at Clachtoll Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. by A.Gray. 2

1 Persicaria amphibia (L.) Gray Persicaria hydropiper (L.) Spach (Polygonum amphibium L.) (Polygonum hydropiper L.) Glùineach an Uisge Glùineach Theth 0 1 2 3 Amphibious Bistort Water-pepper 21 tetrads. Entirely confined to roadsides, where it grows on the gravelly edge of the verge. First 3 3 recorded in 1992 just outside Lochinver.

2 2 Polygonum aviculare L. s.l. 1 1 Glùineach Bheag Knotgrass

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 All records in Anthony were assigned to this taxon which was 4 tetrads. Seen in aquatic form 4 tetrads. Found in wet, open first recorded in the 1950s survey and at its best in Loch an Aigeil. habitats. On muddy, stony for the first Atlas. P. aviculare The other three records are from margins of Loch Assynt and Cam sensu stricto was not found during marshy grassland at Achmelvich Loch and at the back of saltmarsh the present survey. and Clachtoll. First recorded, in at Baddidarach. First recorded in both aquatic and terrestrial forms, 1943 at Feadan by A.J.Wilmott in 1886 at Clachtoll by A.Gray. and M.S.Campbell. Polygonum boreale (Lange) Small Also recorded from NC13 during Glùineach Thuathach the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. Northern Knotgrass Polygonum oxyspermum ssp. raii (Bab.) D.A.Webb & Chater Persicaria maculosa Gray Glùineach na Tràighe (Polygonum persicaria L.) Ray’s Knotgrass 3 Glùineach Dhearg Redshank 2 3 1 3 2

2 0 1 2 3 1 1 tetrad. The first and only record 1 is from a garden in Clachtoll in 0 1 2 3 1998.

0 1 2 3 1 tetrad. The first and only record of this species was made in August

87 Flora of Assynt

Fallopia japonica (Houtt.) Ronse in 1767 near Inchnadamph by Decr. J.Robertson. (Polygonum cuspidatum Siebold & 3 Zucc.) Glùineach Sheapanach Rumex longifolius DC. Japanese Knotweed 2 Copag Thuathach Northern Dock 1

3 0 1 2 3 3

2 First recorded at Clachtoll during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 2 1 1 Rumex acetosella L. 0 1 2 3 Sealbhag nan Caorach Sheep’s Sorrel 0 1 2 3 11 tetrads. Although relatively uncommon in Assynt, this 1 tetrad. The first and only record introduced species shows the same is of a single plant found growing persistence as in other parts of 3 beside the Ledmore River in 1997. Britain. It survives in long- abandoned gardens and has spread to two adjacent roadside verges. 2 Rumex crispus L. First recorded in NC02 by Copag Chamagach A.J.Wilmott, probably in 1943/4. 1 Curled Dock

Fallopia baldschuanica (Regel) 0 1 2 3 Holub 3 Fìon-chrann Ruiseanach 84 tetrads. Widespread in well- Russian-vine drained, heathy areas, acid grassland and around rocks. 2 Regarded as a pernicious weed by local gardeners, who have applied 1 3 to it the suitable name of ‘rootus elasticus’! First recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 0 1 2 3 2 48 tetrads. The records are from 1 Rumex acetosa L. the shore, or cultivated and Samh disturbed ground, roadsides and Common Sorrel areas of habitation, usually near 0 1 2 3 the coast. In only three cases were plants growing on the shore 1 tetrad. Relic of cultivation or sufficiently mature to be identified garden escape. The first and only 3 as ssp. littoreus; they came from record was made in 1996 at Loch Ardbhair, Raffin and the Culkein Stoer. island of A’Chleit. First recorded 2 in 1886 at Elphin by A.Gray.

Fallopia convolvulus (L.) Á.Löve 1 (Polygonum convolvulus L.) Glùineach Dhubh Black Bindweed 0 1 2 3

1 tetrad. The only record comes 139 tetrads. Common in grassy from a garden in Unapool. places everywhere. First recorded

88 Flowering plants and ferns

Rumex obtusifolius L. Copag Leathann Broad-leaved Dock 3 3

2 2

3 1 1

2

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 1 The only inland non-montane constructed road near Unapool. record is from the roadside by 0 1 2 3 Loch na Gainmhich. First recorded in 1774 on ‘the top of Hypericum pulchrum L. 75 tetrads. Very common on Braeback Hill’ by J.Home. Lus Chaluim Chille roadsides, cultivated and waste Slender St John’s-wort ground. First recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. CLUSIACEAE

3 Oxyria digyna (L.) Hill Hypericum androsaemum L. Sealbhag nam Fiadh Meas an Tuirc Coille Mountain Sorrel Tutsan 2

1

3 3 0 1 2 3

2 2 132 tetrads. Widespread and common in dry heath, stony 1 1 grassland and on banks. The only St John’s-wort in Assynt, apart from the garden escape and casual 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 species mentioned above. First recorded in 1767 near 26 tetrads. Usually up in the hills 4 tetrads. The sites, small quarries Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. in damp rocky places, particularly and ditches along the road beside beside watercourses. Occasionally Loch Assynt, and the bank of a at much lower levels, where burn near houses in Nedd, suggest DROSERACEAE presumably it has rooted after that the plants are of garden origin. being washed down from above. They are maintaining themselves First recorded in 1899 at with varying degrees of success, Drosera rotundifolia L. Inchnadamph and on the ‘north often with other garden throwouts. Lus na Feàrnaich slopes of Canisp’ by C.E.Salmon. First recorded in 1944 at Round-leaved Sundew Lochinver by A.J.Wilmott.

PLUMBAGINACEAE Hypericum tetrapterum Fr. 3 Beachnuadh Fireann Armeria maritima Willd. Square-stalked St John’s-wort Neòinean Cladaich 2 Thrift 1 tetrad. The first and only record, made in 1990, is from the 1 70 tetrads. Saltmarshes, sea cliffs verge of a relatively recently and rocky shores, also inland on open, stony ground, well up on the 0 1 2 3 hills.

89 Flora of Assynt

142 tetrads. Widespread and common in particularly wet, peaty widespread throughout the area, in common in open, wet, peaty places and stony flushes. Less heathland, grassland and habitats; also in stony flushes, on tolerant of dryness than D. woodland. Not recorded from the Sphagnum tussocks, and on bare rotundifolia. First recorded in famously barren tetrad, on peat. First recorded in 1767 near 1886 as ‘more abundant in Assynt quartzite on the lower slopes of Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. than rotundifolia’ by A.Gray. Canisp. First recorded in 1943 ‘between Achadhantuir and Feadan’ by A.J.Wilmott and Drosera x obovata Mert. & Drosera intermedia Hayne M.S.Campbell. W.D.J.Koch Dealt Ruaidhe D. rotundifolia x D. anglica Oblong-leaved Sundew Viola canina L. Sàil-chuach Mointich Heath Dog-violet 3 3

2 2 3

1 1 2

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 1

2 tetrads. Both records are from 2 tetrads. Recorded from wet just above the water’s edge, on the heath near Loch na Bruthaich, and 0 1 2 3 Unapool Burn and a small from a Schoenus flush on the edge watercourse near Creagan Mór. In of Loch Assynt. We have 2 tetrads. Both records are from both cases the plants were probably under-recorded this short grassland on the limestone, at observed to look ‘odd’ in the field species. First recorded in 1908 on Creagan Breaca and Eadar and one population was clearly the ‘south shore of Loch Assynt’ a’Chalda. As there seems to be sterile. This hybrid may have been by E.S.Marshall and other, equally suitable, ground, it is overlooked in other places. First W.A.Shoolbred; subsequently likely that this species has been recorded in 1890 ‘in a bog near from two bogs at the head of Loch under-recorded. The name is first Lochinver, with the parents, in Leathad nan Aighean and at Airigh used in 1767 by J.Robertson for a plenty’ by E.S.Marshall and Bheag in 1956 by A.O.Chater. A plant found near Inchnadamph, F.J.Hanbury. Mapped for NC02 in further record was made in 1967, which may have been this species, the Critical Supplement. west of Loch Leitir Easaidh, by or V. riviniana. In 1886 the Anthony’s card index also has a P.Cobb. species was recorded from record for ‘Skiag Bridge, Clachtoll by A.Gray, and there are 14.9.[18]87’, the original source of more recent records from which has not been traced. VIOLACEAE Achmelvich and Stoer which may be correct, since Anthony records the species as ‘frequent in coastal Drosera anglica Huds. Viola riviniana Rchb. areas in the west and north’. Lus a’Ghadmainn Dail-chuach Coitcheann Great Sundew Common Dog-violet Viola palustris L. Dail-chuach Lèana Marsh Violet 3 3 146 tetrads. Common and widespread in marshes, bogs and 2 2 wet woodland.

1 1

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3

123 tetrads. Widespread and 151 tetrads. Common and

90 Flowering plants and ferns

Viola arvensis Murray Populus nigra L. Luibh Cridhe Pobhlar Dubh 3 Field Pansy Black-poplar

The occasional planted trees which 2 occur were not mapped. Recorded 3 as ‘introduced’ in 1886 at 1 Lochinver by A.Gray.

2 0 1 2 3 Populus trichocarpa Torr. & 1 A.Gray ex Hook. First recorded in 1767 near Western Balsam-poplar Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Omitted, presumably accidentally, 0 1 2 3 from Anthony. 1 tetrad. Found only once, on 3 disturbed ground near the sea at Viola lutea Huds. Culkein Stoer, growing with Sàil-chuach an t-Slèibhe Lycopsis arvensis, another rare 2 Mountain Pansy ‘weed’. This could be the result of a seed bank of old cultivation 1 Not seen during the present survey. having been uncovered, or of fresh First recorded in 1886 at seeds coming in with machinery. Inchnadamph by A.Gray, and First recorded from NC02 during 0 1 2 3 again in 1899 on ‘cliffs the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. immediately overlooking Also recorded from Clashnessie in 1 tetrad. Introduced. The first Inchnadamph’ by C.E.Salmon, but the 1960s by A.G.Kenneth. and only record, made in 1999, is not since. of recently planted trees in the woods alongside the River Inver. SALICACEAE Viola tricolor L. Goirmean-searradh Salix pentandra L. Wild Pansy Populus tremula L. Seileach Labhrais Critheann Bay Willow Aspen

3 3 3 2 2 2 1 1 1 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 3 tetrads. An uncommon casual, 0 1 2 3 found in waste or disturbed ground 9 tetrads. Almost certainly at Achmore, on the side of Loch 85 tetrads. Frequent in rocky introduced, as it nearly always Assynt and Lochinver. Two of the woodland, gorges and on cliffs, occurs in the vicinity of dwellings, three records were identified as V. where its suckers spread through sometimes long-abandoned. It tricolor ssp. tricolor. V. tricolor the most unlikely substrates. would have been planted for its ssp. curtisii has not been seen. Although it does not flower or fruit attractive glossy leaves and First recorded in 1907 at freely, it must sometimes set seed handsome male catkins (all the Inchnadamph by G.C.Druce, and successfully, as the majority of its trees whose sex we have noted as ssp. tricolor in 1943 ‘in a potato more isolated sites could not have have been male). Recorded as patch near Inverkirkaig’ by been colonised in any other way. ‘introduced?’ in 1886 at Lochinver A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. First recorded in 1767 near by A.Gray, and in 1890 at There is also a 1950s record for Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. ‘Lochinver, by a small woodland NC03.

91 Flora of Assynt swamp; evidently indigenous’ by Salix x sericans Tausch ex recorded in 1767 near E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. A.Kerner Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. S. viminalis x S. caprea Specimens seen at Inchnadamph in Broad-leaved Osier 1887 were described by Salix fragilis L. E.S.Marshall as an ‘alpine Seileach Brisg exstipulate form’ and identified by Crack Willow E.F.Linton as ssp. sphacelata; 3 however this taxon is now only Introduced. Not seen, outside a recognised from Scottish localities garden situation, during the present south of here and at altitudes over survey. First recorded from NC03 2 300m. in the 1950s survey for the first Atlas, and also by J.Anthony at 1 Drumbeg in the same decade. Salix cinerea L. ssp. oleifolia Macreight 0 1 2 3 Seileach Ruadh Salix alba L. Rusty or Grey Willow Seileach Bàn 1 tetrad. Recorded in 1998 in a White Willow garden at Inverkirkaig. This small tree had grown from a stake Introduced. Not seen, away from pushed into the ground as a 3 habitations, during the present gatepost, some 60 years ago – a survey. First recorded in 1886 testimony to Assynt’s moist from ‘Achumore’ by A.Gray. climate! First recorded from 2 material collected in 1908 on the Traligill River by E.S.Marshall and 1 Salix purpurea L. F.J.Hanbury and identified by Seileach Corcarach E.F.Linton. Purple Willow 0 1 2 3

Not seen during the present survey. Salix x smithiana Willd. 60 tetrads. The map gives a Recorded in 1886 on the River S. viminalis x S. cinerea slightly false impression of the Kirkaig by A.Gray. Silky-leaved Osier frequency of this species, which is actually spread thinly, occurring Not seen during the present survey. usually as isolated trees in Salix viminalis L. First recorded in 1943 at woodland, gorges, along burns and Seileach Uisge ‘Lochinver, by stream going over roadsides. There are some Osier to Lady Constance Bay’ by exceptionally large specimens at A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. Drumbeg and Nedd. First recorded in 1894 ‘near Elphin and Ledbeg’ by G.C.Druce. 3 Salix caprea L. Geal-sheileach Goat Willow Salix x multinervis Doll 2 S. cinerea x S. aurita

1 3 3

0 1 2 3 2 16 tetrads. Always associated 2 with habitations, where 1 presumably it was planted, 1 although not in living memory, probably as a source of material 0 1 2 3 for creels. First recorded from 0 1 2 3 NC02 in the 1950s survey for the 22 tetrads. Thinly scattered, first Atlas. usually as isolated trees in 10 tetrads. Although these bushes woodland or in gorges, some caught the eye and were easily attaining an impressive size. First identified as the hybrid, it is likely

92 Flowering plants and ferns that there are many others, less freely. First recorded during the obviously intermediate in 1950s survey for the first Atlas. character, which are of the same 3 hybrid parentage. First recorded in 1890 ‘near Inchnadamph’ by Salix x ludificans F.B.White E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury, and S. aurita x S. phylicifolia L. 2 again in 1943 on a ‘rocky hillside between Lochinver and Stoer’ by 1 A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. 3 0 1 2 3 Salix x laurina Sm. S. cinerea x S. phylicifolia L. 2 willow, particularly abundant on. Laurel-leaved Willow coastal cliffs, but also on rocky 1 heathland and in limestone areas. Variable in size, leaf shape and habit; no attempt has been made to 3 0 1 2 3 assign varietal status to the records. First recorded in 1767 1 tetrad. The first and only near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 2 record, made in 1997, is of a small bush on the bank of a burn, west of 1 Beinn Reidh, in a very remote Salix x cernua E.F.Linton area. S. phylicifolia has not been S. repens x S. herbacea recorded in Assynt, but is the 0 1 2 3 parent of two different hybrids which have been found (a single 1 tetrad. The first and only bush in each case), about eight 3 record, made in 1992, is of one kilometres apart. bush on the edge of Allt Sgiathaig, a small burn on the west side of the 2 road which runs north from Skiag Salix x ambigua Ehrh. Bridge. S. phylicifolia has not S. aurita x S. repens 1 been found in Assynt.

0 1 2 3 Salix aurita L. 3 Seileach Cluasach 1 tetrad. The first and only record Eared Willow was made in 1999 on the northern 2 slopes of Beinn an Fhuarain, in dry heath. 1 3 Salix lapponum L. 0 1 2 3 Seileach Clùimhteach 2 Downy Willow 8 tetrads. Found on heathy 1 ground, this is a fairly easily Recorded in August 1956 by recognisable hybrid, intermediate A.O.Chater beside a waterfall at between its parents. First recorded the lower end of the Allt nan 0 1 2 3 in 1890 ‘near Inchnadamph, in two Uamh, and on the south side of forms’ and ‘coast, Lochinver’ by Cnoc na Sròine. It has not been 131 tetrads. By far the E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. seen since and does not now occur commonest willow, growing on at the Allt nan Uamh site. moorland, burn banks, wet woodland and roadside verges. Salix repens L. Sometimes forms low thickets on Seileach Làir marshy ground; there are Creeping Willow impressively extensive examples on Soyea Island. Hybridises 105 tetrads. A very common

93 Flora of Assynt

Salix myrsinites L. tops, mostly above 350m. A Seileach Miortail striking exception is the site on the Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. Whortle-leaved Willow coast, at Rubh’ Dhubhard near Biolair Thàilianach Drumbeg, where it grows at 15m. Thale Cress above sea level, on exposed peat on a rocky outcrop. First recorded 3 in 1899, on ‘Canisp, at 2500ft.’, by C.E.Salmon. At first glance the 3 record in the first Atlas for NC02 2 seems unlikely, but in the light of the Drumbeg record perhaps it is 2 1 not so surprising. 1

0 1 2 3 BRASSICACEAE 0 1 2 3 5 tetrads. In Assynt this species is largely confined to limestone Sisymbrium altissimum L. 5 tetrads. Occurs rarely as a areas. Four of the tetrads are on Tall Rocket garden weed, and on roadside the limestones of the Cnoc Eilid verges where imported soil has Mhathain, River Traligill, Creag Not seen during the present survey. been spread. First recorded from Sròn Chrùbaidh and Creag nan First recorded in 1944 at NC02 during the 1950s survey for Uamh. The fifth is from Lochinver by A.J.Wilmott. the first Atlas. Torridonian crags, at the foot of the north face of Beinn Gharbh, where it grows with the normally Sisymbrium officinale (L.) Scop. Hesperis matronalis L. calcicolous Asplenium viride. First Meilise Feasgar-lus recorded in 1887 ‘by the Traligill’ Hedge Mustard Dame’s Violet by E.S.Marshall. Two years later Marshall and F.J.Hanbury Casual, not mapped. Recorded Casual, not mapped. Recorded recorded it as ‘very abundant on from NC02W and 13F. First from one tetrad, NC02X. during the limestone, between 300 and recorded in 1886 by A.Gray for the present survey. First recorded 700 feet…several hundreds of v.c.108 and attributed by during the 1950s survey for the bushes…large bright-green patches J.Anthony to Assynt. first Atlas from NC02. in the heather formed by single shrubs often measuring several feet in diameter’. It has greatly Alliaria petiolata (M.Bieb.) Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum diminished in quantity since then, Cavara & Grande (L.) Hayek presumably because the deer Gàirleach Callaid Biolair Uisge population has increased, and can Garlic Mustard Water-cress now be seen at its most luxuriant in the Inchnadamph exclosures.

3 3 Salix herbacea L. Seileach Ailpeach Dwarf Willow 2 2

1 1

3

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3

2 1 tetrad. A rare casual, absent 2 tetrads. Found only twice, at from most of the north-west of Inchnadamph and Achmore; seems 1 Scotland. The first and only to require slow-moving water, record was made in 2000, and was preferably affected by some of a single plant, growing on the enriching run-off from nearby 0 1 2 3 edge of a playground at Lochinver. houses! First recorded in 1993, at Achmore. 34 tetrads. Stony ground on hill

94 Flowering plants and ferns

Rorippa microphylla (Boenn.) conditions. Found on the tops of N.Hylander ex Á & D.Löve old walls and occasionally as a Mion-bhiolair 3 garden weed. First recorded in Narrow-fruited Water-cress 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson (although C. flexuosa 2 and this species may not have been distinguished at that time). Found 3 1 in 1894 ‘near Elphin and Ledbeg’ by G.C.Druce.

2 0 1 2 3 Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. 1 common in marshes, ditches and Biolair na Creige Ghiobach wet woodland. First recorded in Hairy Rock-cress 1767 near Inchnadamph by 0 1 2 3 J.Robertson. Not seen during the present survey. First recorded from NC21 in the 2 tetrads. Found at Clachtoll and 1950s survey for the first Atlas, Achmelvich. First recorded in Cardamine flexuosa With. and from Ardvreck Castle by 1998 from the second of these. Searbh-bhiolair Chasta M.G.Coulson in 1969. Wavy Bitter-cress

Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum Draba incana L. agg. Biolradh Gruagain Liath Biolair Uisge 3 Hoary Whitlowgrass Water-cress

2

3 3 1

2 2 0 1 2 3 1 1 113 tetrads. Widespread and common in marshes, ditches, wet

woodland and on river margins. 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 Also found in wet disturbed ground, commonly as a garden 5 tetrads. A rare calcicole of 3 tetrads. Comprising records of weed. First recorded, in 1894 as crags, boulders, rock ledges and, plants which, in the absence of ‘C. sylvatica’, at Knockan Crags occasionally, turf. Found in the flowers or fruit, were not by G.C.Druce. limestone areas of Allt identifiable further. The most a’Bhealaich, Allt nan Uamh, interesting was on the small, Bealach Traligill, Elphin and uninhabited island of Soyea where, Cardamine hirsuta L. Inchnadamph. First recorded in on the top of the island, a damp Searbh-bhiolair Ghiobach 1772 at ‘Creag a-chnocaen’ by area c.50m. across is completely Hairy Bitter-cress T.Pennant and J.Lightfoot, and covered with water-cress, with no again there in 1894 by G.C.Druce. sign of flower or fruit. The area is Also, in 1949, from Cnoc an t- clearly used by gulls and/or geese Sasunnaich (above Knockan crags) as a roost. The tetrad line runs 3 by A.A.P.Slack. west-east through the site, thus accounting for two tetrads. 2 Erophila verna (L.) DC. Biolradh Gruagain Cardamine pratensis L. 1 Common Whitlowgrass Flùr na Cuthaig Cuckooflower 3 tetrads. In dry places. On a 0 1 2 3 wall in Stoer village, outcrop rock 101 tetrads. Widespread and at Oldany Farmhouse and 11 tetrads. Requires dry

95 Flora of Assynt

A.G.Kenneth recorded it from the Lochinver’ by A.J.Wilmott and ‘N. face’ of Canisp in 1985. M.S.Campbell.

3 Cochlearia officinalis L. Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Am Maraiche Medik. 2 Scurvygrass An Sporan Shepherd’s-purse 1

3 0 1 2 3 3 on the edge of an old road at Little 2 Assynt. First recorded as E. verna 2 s.l. from NC02 and NC22 during 1 the 1950s survey for the first Atlas, 1 and also from NC21 in 1976 by U.Duncan. 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 33 tetrads. Into this category have Erophila glabrescens Jord. been placed all those plants which 23 tetrads. All the records are Biolradh Gruagain Mìn we did not or could not identify to from man-influenced habitats, Glabrous Whitlowgrass subspecies. Very common around cultivated and disturbed ground the coast, on rocky shores and salt generally. First recorded during marshes. Two records are from the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. inland, montane sites, one on Suilven and one by a waterfall on 3 the upper reaches of the River Thaspi arvense L. Traligill. First recorded during the Praiseach Fèidh 2 1950s survey for the first Atlas. Field Penny-cress

1 Cochlearia officinalis L. ssp. scotica (Druce) P.S.Wyse 3 Jacks. 0 1 2 3 (C. scotica Druce) 2 3 tetrads. Similar places to the Carran Albannach above. On a concrete building Scottish Scurvygrass base at Eadar a’Chalda, along the 1 middle of the cemetery track at Nedd and on a roadside verge at Inverkirkaig. First recorded in 3 0 1 2 3 1989 from the last of these. 3 tetrads. A rare casual which has 2 turned up twice in gardens, at Cochlearia pyrenaica DC. Clachtoll and Nedd, and once on ssp. alpina (Bab.) Dalby 1 disturbed ground in Lochinver. (C. alpina (Bab.) H.C.Wats.) First recorded in 1995 in the Carran Ailpeach second of these sites.

Pyrenean Scurvygrass 0 1 2 3

Not seen during the present survey. 5 tetrads. Occurs on rocky shores Subularia aquatica L. First recorded in 1907, somewhat and in saltmarsh at Baddidarach, Lus a’Mhinidh ambiguously, as on ‘Ben Mor Clachtoll, Loch Ardbhair, Loch Awlwort Assynt, 108’ by G.C.Druce (who Nedd and Soyea Island. First was usually very precise about recorded in 1943 on ‘sea rocks, 38 tetrads. Widespread in acid vice county boundaries). In Balchladich Bay’ and again, in lochs where the substrate is sand or Anthony’s card index there is an 1944, ‘on a tiny extent of fine gravel. Usually found entry for ‘Coineval 2500ft.’, and saltmarsh below the church, growing underwater with Littorella and Lobelia, but can also flourish

96 Flowering plants and ferns

ssp. hermaphroditum (Hagerup) Böcher 3 3 Dearcag Fhithich Mountain Crowberry

2 2

1 1 3

2 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 on ‘dry land’ when water levels are First recorded from Achmelvich 1 low. First recorded in 1886 in during the 1950s survey for the Loch Awe by A.Gray. first Atlas. 0 1 2 3

Diplotaxis muralis (L.) DC. Raphanus raphanistrum L. 25 tetrads. The map comprises Annual Wall-rocket (R. raphanistrum var. aureum records from montane sites, where Wilmott) this subspecies was either Not seen during the present survey. Meacan Ruadh Fiadhain definitely identified or was the First recorded in 1944 from Wild Radish more likely of the two. Lochinver by A.J.Wilmott; also from NC02 in 1956 by J.Dickson. Not seen during the present survey. First recorded in 1894 from ERICACEAE ‘cornfields at Elphin and Brassica rapa L. Knockan…the yellow flowered Nèap Fiadhain plant’, by G.C.Druce; and in 1943 Loiseleuria procumbens (L.) Desv. Turnip as var. aureum, at Drumbeg by Lusan Albannach A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. Trailing Azalea

3 EMPETRACEAE 3

2 Empetrum nigrum L. Lus an Feannaig 2 1 Crowberry 1

0 1 2 3 3 0 1 2 3 1 tetrad. When the record was made in 1995, it was a plentiful 9 tetrads. An uncommon species weed of cultivation on a patch of 2 of stony, acid hilltops. Recorded arable ground at Achmelvich, only from Beinn nan Cnaimhseag, which has since been abandoned. 1 Beinn Reidh, Beinn Uidhe, Canisp, First recorded from NC02, in the Glas Bheinn and Quinag. First 1950s survey for the first Atlas. recorded in 1886 from ‘Ben 0 1 2 3 Reidhe-Quinag’ by A.Gray.

Cakile maritima Scop. 136 tetrads. Common and Fearsaideag widespread on rocky moorland, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.) Sea Rocket hills and coastal cliffs. In the Spreng. frequent absence of flowers or Grainnseag 2 tetrads. Found on the shore at fruit, a large number of records Bearberry Achmelvich and Stoer; a shortage were not identifiable to subspecies of sandy beaches in Assynt may (but see next map). First recorded 76 tetrads. Patchily distributed on account for its rarity. in 1767 near Inchnadamph by rocky moorland and hillsides, J.Robertson. often growing draped over outcrop rock. Can be particularly profuse

97 Flora of Assynt

Vaccinium vitis-idaea L. Lus nam Braoileag 3 3 Cowberry

2 2

3 1 1

2

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 1 in sheltered gorges, where the The white form occurs rarely. growth may be luxuriant, but also First recorded in 1767 near occurs on broken quartzite Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 0 1 2 3 pavement as on Canisp and Meallan Liath Mór. First recorded 71 tetrads. Grows on peaty in 1886 from ‘Quinag-shore at Erica tetralix L. moorland and in open woodland, Kylesku’ by A.Gray. Fraoch Frangach with a curious distribution which Cross-leaved Heath we do not really understand. It is apparently absent from much of Arctostaphylos alpinus (L.) the gneiss and is commonest at Spreng. moderate altitudes, but could not Cnaimhseag 3 be described as montane. First Arctic Bearberry recorded in 1890 at Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. 2

3 1 Vaccinium uliginosum L. Dearc Roide Bog Blaeberry 2 0 1 2 3

1 148 tetrads. Widespread in wet heath and bog. A white form 3 occurs rather more commonly than 0 1 2 3 in Calluna. First recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 2 18 tetrads. On mostly high moorland amongst dwarf 1 vegetation. It has occasionally Erica cinerea L. been found at surprisingly low Fraoch a’Bhadain altitudes: at 250m. on Cnoc an Bell Heather 0 1 2 3 Leathaid Bhuidhe and at 230m. on Druim nan Cnaimhseag. First 13 tetrads. Uncommon. Found recorded in 1886 at Beinn nan on wet moorland at or above Cnaimhseag (hill of the bearberry) 3 500m.; the name ‘Bog Bilberry’ is by A.Gray. a little misleading. First recorded in 1899 at Meallan Liath Mór by 2 C.E.Salmon. Calluna vulgaris (L.) Hull Fraoch 1 Heather Vaccinium myrtillus L. Caora-mhitheag 159 tetrads. An almost complete 0 1 2 3 Blaeberry or Bilberry map coverage. Although predominantly on dry moorland, 153 tetrads. Widespread and 141 tetrads. Common and rocky areas and open woodland, it common on dry, heathy ground. widespread on moorland, in open also occurs commonly in wet We have seen a white form only woodland and on banks. Fruit not heath, sometimes on Sphagnum. twice. First recorded in 1767 near often seen except in places Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. inaccessible to grazing animals, as

98 Flowering plants and ferns

3 3 3

2 2 2

1 1 1

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 in forestry plantations. First The plants were growing on a This area was extensively restored recorded in 1767 near ledge of a steep Torridonian crag, in the 1980s, following serious Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. on the north-facing side of a erosion. Recorded in 1767 near valley, east of Creagan Mór. Inchnadamph by J.Robertson, but could this have been in error for PYROLACEAE the very much commoner P. PRIMULACEAE vulgaris, which he did not mention? Recorded from NC02 Pyrola media Sw. and NC21 in the 1950s survey for Glas-luibh Meadhanach Primula vulgaris Huds. the first Atlas and again from Intermediate Wintergreen Sòbhrach NC02 in 1969. Primrose

Lysimachia nemorum L. 3 Seamrag Moire 3 Yellow Pimpernel

2 2

1 3 1

2 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 1 tetrad. The first and only record 1 was made in 1999 by G.P.Rothero. 135 tetrads. Common and The plants were found growing widespread where there is some beneath Calluna in Gleannan shade or shelter, for example 0 1 2 3 a’Mhadaidh, at the point where a woodland, burn banks, boulder dark basic dyke forms part of the scree, gorges, and open grassland 111 tetrads. Widespread and south-facing wall of this narrow where bracken gives protection. frequent, in woodland and on the gorge. None were flowering and First recorded in 1951 on the edge of burns where it is sheltered the species was only certainly Traligill Burn by J.Raven. by Calluna and other vegetation. identified after one plant had First recorded in 1767 near flowered in cultivation. This is Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. also one of the sites for Asplenium Primula veris L. septentrionale. Muisean Cowslip Trientalis europaea L. Reul na Coille Orthilia secunda (L.) House 1 tetrad. Mentioned in Anthony as Chickweed Wintergreen Glas-luibh Fhiaclach growing in sandy pastures by the Serrated Wintergreen sea. However, during the present 1 tetrad. Found once only, in survey this species was not 1987 at Duart, growing beneath 1 tetrad. The first and only record recorded until 2000, when one Calluna. There are three other was made in 1999 by G.P.Rothero. non-flowering plant was seen at records from NC13. It was the back of the dunes at recorded in the 1950s survey for Achmelvich, and 2001, when two the first Atlas, there is a specimen plants were noted in the same area. in a collection of pressed flowers made in 1964 in the vicinity of

99 Flora of Assynt

3 3 3

2 2 2

1 1 1

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3

Drumbeg by S.MacLeod, and it The only exceptions are a record First recorded in 1767 by was seen in the 1980s near Loch from a saltmarsh, and a single J.Robertson , ‘in a small Island Drumbeg. First recorded in 1886 plant found on rock splashed by within the crooked Loch there is at ‘Stronechrubie (very local, only water, a few hundred metres from abundance of Ribes rubrum’. This this one locality known)’ by the coast. First recorded in 1991 at is interpreted by Henderson and A.Gray. Rubh’an Dùnain. Dickson (1994) as Loch Lurgainn in Wester Ross, but the 1768 catalogue of J.Hope’s Hortus Anagallis tenella (L.) L. Glaux maritima L. Siccus, which contained Falcair Lèana Lus na Saillteachd Robertson’s specimen, has Bog Pimpernel Sea-milkwort ‘Crooked Loch Assynt’ and Eilean na Gartaig, the wooded island nearest to the road on Cam Loch (‘cam’ means ‘crooked’ in Gaelic), 3 3 is a much more likely locality, especially as the species was recorded in 1959 from there by 2 2 A.A.Slack. Also recorded in 1886 from Lochinver and in the 1950s

1 1 survey for the first Atlas.

Ribes nigrum L. 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 Dearc Dhubh 1 tetrad. The population extends 23 tetrads. Common on suitable Black Currant over a small area of short, grazed, sandy and rocky shores and in peaty vegetation, on a cliff top at saltmarsh. First recorded in Balchladich on the Stoer Anthony’s card index as peninsula. First recorded in 1955 ‘Lochinver, 16.7.[18]90 3 in a ‘bog….Stoer’ by E.S.M[arshall].’ Also recorded in J.V.Sutherland (which may be the 1943 at ‘Lochinver, in saltmarsh 2 present locality). Also recorded in on the north side of the bay’ by 1981 near the mouth of the River A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. Loanan by N.T.H.Holmes. 1

GROSSULARIACEAE Anagallis minima (L.) 0 1 2 3 E.H.L.Krause Falcair Mìn Ribes rubrum L. 2 tetrads. Introduced. Two Chaffweed (R. sylvestre (Lam.) Mert. & apparently bird-sown bushes, on Koch) the side of ditches at Rhicarn and 15 tetrads. Nearly all the records Dearc Dhearg Stronechrubie. Presumably of are coastal and from sites within a Red Currant garden origin. First recorded from few metres of high tide level. The Rhicarn in 1996. plants occupy a very distinct 2 tetrads. Introduced or garden habitat - small areas of short turf escapes, at Clashmore and Oldany, between outcropping rocks. in each case growing on a wall.

100 Flowering plants and ferns

Ribes uva-crispa L. Sedum acre L. SAXIFRAGACEAE Gròiseid Gràbhan nan Clach Gooseberry Biting Stonecrop Saxifraga nivalis L. Clach-bhriseach an t-Sneachda Alpine Saxifrage 3 3

2 2 3

1 1 2

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 1

2 tetrads. Introduced. Found on 5 tetrads. Rare. Found only on the wall of an old ruin at Duart and the coast, on sandy or rocky shores 0 1 2 3 a roadside ditch near Torgawn. or in dune grassland. First Probably bird-sown and of garden recorded in 1886 at Achmelvich 1 tetrad. The first and only record origin. First recorded in 1907 Bay by A.Gray. was made in 1999 by G.P.Rothero. ‘growing on the limestone cliffs of Three rosettes were noted at Blar nam Fiadhag…perhaps bird- 600m., on a vertical wall in the sown’ by G.C.Druce. Also Sedum album L. gulley between Meall Meadhonach recorded in 1943 ‘in boulder scree Gràbhan nan Clach Bàn and Meall Beag, at the eastern end of gorge above Port Alltan na White Stonecrop of Suilven. Bradhan’ by A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. Not seen during the present survey. First recorded from NC02 and Saxifraga stellaris L. NC03 during the 1950s survey for Clach-bhriseach Reultach CRASSULACEAE the first Atlas. Starry Saxifrage

Sedum rosea (L.) Scop. Sedum anglicum Huds. Lus nan Laoch Biadh an t-Sionnaidh 3 Roseroot English Stonecrop

2

3 3 1

2 2 0 1 2 3

1 1 35 tetrads. Frequent in wet rocky places in the hills, growing on burn sides and at waterfalls, either on 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 bare rock or on moss. First recorded during the 1950s survey 55 tetrads. Widespread along the 62 tetrads. Common on rock for the first Atlas. coast where it grows luxuriantly on around the coast and extending the cliffs. Also occurs inland, on some distance inland. Not found cliffs and ledges on the higher high in the hills or in limestone Saxifraga x urbium D.A.Webb hills. First recorded in 1952 at areas. First recorded in 1886 S. umbrosa L. x S. spathularis Achmelvich by J.Anthony. ‘Kylesku-Clachtoll’ by A.Gray. Brot. Londonpride

1 tetrad. The first and only record was made in 1995 at Nedd.

101 Flora of Assynt

88 tetrads. Ranges from quite Chrysosplenium oppositifolium L. high altitudes down almost to sea Lus nan Laogh 3 level, on wet rocks, screes and Opposite-leaved Golden- burn sides. Particularly saxifrage characteristic of stony basic 2 flushes. First recorded in 1767, as ‘S. autumnalis’, near Inchnadamph 1 by J.Robertson. 3

2 0 1 2 3 Saxifraga hypnoides L. Clach-bhriseach Còinnich The plant flourishes with other Mossy Saxifrage 1 garden escapes on a damp, roadside cliff. 0 1 2 3 3 Saxifraga oppositifolia L. 74 tetrads. Frequent in wet stony Clach-bhriseach Phurpaidh flushes, ditches, wet woodland and Purple Saxifrage 2 occasionally marshes. First recorded during the 1950s survey 1 for the first Atlas.

3 0 1 2 3 Parnassia palustris L. Fionnan Gael 2 4 tetrads. Rare, on damp rocks Grass-of-Parnassus and burn sides. Found at Allt nan 1 Uamh, Bealach Traligill and on Suilven. First recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson; 3 0 1 2 3 again in 1890 ‘on limestone about Inchnadamph, descending to 600ft’ 12 tetrads. Rocks and screes on by E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury, 2 the higher hills. Although most of and in 1907 ‘on Quinag’ by the sites are montane and above G.C.Druce. 1 300m., one is at only 90m. on wet rocks beside a burn in Gleann Ardbhair, presumably washed Tolmiea menziesii (Pursh) Torr. & 0 1 2 3 down from the higher ground. A.Gray First recorded in 1886 as ‘common Pick-a-back-plant 1 tetrad. Considering the on mountain tops in Assynt’ by frequency with which it occurs A.Gray. A record for NC02 in the north of Assynt, it is surprising first Atlas may be an error. that the present survey has only 3 produced one site for this species, in wet grassland close to the head Saxifraga aizoides L. of Loch Veyatie. Increased Clach-bhriseach Bhuidhe 2 grazing pressure may be Yellow Saxifrage responsible for the disappearance 1 of plants from sites known in earlier centuries. First recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by 3 0 1 2 3 J.Robertson. Also recorded in 1886 at Loch Awe by A.Gray, and at 1 tetrad. Naturalised and thriving Achmelvich during the 1950s 2 on a damp, shady, cliff face, in survey for the first Atlas. close proximity to an old house. 1 First recorded in 1996 from Kerrachar.

0 1 2 3

102 Flowering plants and ferns

ROSACEAE flowering plants and even those that bloom do not necessarily fruit. 3 First recorded in 1890 as ‘R. Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. villicaulis Kochl.….plentiful at Cneas Chù Chulainn Lochinver’ by E.S.Marshall and Meadowsweet 2 F.J.Hanbury. The only records that accord with the modern 1 concepts of the group are of R. septentrionalis W.C.R.Watson, 3 collected in 1958 at Achadhantuir 0 1 2 3 and Achmelvich by E.S.Edees and since determined by him. 2 First recorded in 1894 on Knockan Crags ‘in flower, with an odour of 1 hawthorn’ by G.C.Druce. Potentilla palustris (L.) Scop. Còig-bhileach Uisge Marsh Cinquefoil 0 1 2 3 Rubus idaeus L. Sùbh-craoibh 134 tetrads. Widespread and Raspberry common on damp or wet ground 3 where there is coarse vegetation. In marshes, wet woodland, burn 2 sides, ditches and roadside verges. 3 First recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 1 2

Rubus chamaemorus L. 1 0 1 2 3 Lus nan Oighreag Cloudberry 40 tetrads. The most frequent 0 1 2 3 habitats are loch shores, where these are flat and merge into 38 tetrads. In woodland and marshy ground. With the rise and 3 scrub, in rough vegetation along fall in loch levels, it must be able the base of walls, on verges and in to tolerate short periods of partial ditches. First recorded during the submersion. It also grows in 2 1950s survey for the first Atlas. isolated bogs and marshes. First recorded in 1767, as ‘Comarum 1 palustre’, near Inchnadamph by Rubus fruticosus agg. J.Robertson. Dris 0 1 2 3 Bramble Potentilla anserina L. 36 tetrads. On high, damp, peaty Brisgean moorland, often growing with Silverweed Dwarf Cornel. Occurs at the 3 unusually low altitude of 100m. at the eastern end of An Coimhleum. 2 First recorded, from NC21 and 3 NC22, during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 1 2

Rubus saxatilis L. 0 1 2 3 1 Caor Bad Miann Stone Bramble 53 tetrads. This far north it only succeeds under the optimum 0 1 2 3 75 tetrads. Typically trailing from conditions of a sunny, sheltered ledges, on inland or coastal cliffs, site, with light grazing pressure. 64 tetrads. It is clear from the over outcrop rock or on scree. The majority of records are of non- map that this species is most

103 Flora of Assynt frequent along roadside verges, but Potentilla reptans L. from the same grid reference as the it is also found in a variety of other Còig-bhileach first of the recent records habitats such as coastal grassland, Creeping Cinquefoil mentioned above. river gravels, stony shores of the larger lochs and above high water Not seen during present survey. mark on shingle and sandy First recorded from NC22 in the Fragaria vesca L. beaches. First recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. Sùbh-làir Fiadhain 1950s survey for the first Atlas. Wild Strawberry

Potentilla sterilis (L.) Garcke Potentilla crantzii (Crantz) Beck Sùbh-làir Brèige ex Fritsch Barren Strawberry 3 Leamhnach Ailpeach Alpine Cinquefoil 2 3 1 3 2

0 1 2 3 2 1 41 tetrads. Scattered in woodland, 1 scrub, grassland and boulder scree. 0 1 2 3 First recorded in 1943 on a ‘roadside bank, Achadhantuir’ by 0 1 2 3 7 tetrads. An uncommon species A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. of woodland and grassland on both 2 tetrads. Rare, on the limestone basic and acidic soils. First rocks of Cnoc Eilid Mhathain and recorded in 1992 from Tòrr Geum rivale L. in Bealach Traligill. First recorded a’Ghamhna. Machall Uisge in 1953 at the first of these sites by Water Avens J.E.Raven and S.M.Walters. Sibbaldia procumbens L. Siobaldag Potentilla erecta (L.) Räusch. Sibbaldia 3 Cairt Làir Tormentil 2 3 1 3 2

0 1 2 3 2 1 98 tetrads. Common in wet 1 woodland and alongside burns, in 0 1 2 3 all but the most barren areas. First recorded in 1894 as ‘not 0 1 2 3 2 tetrads. Both the recent records infrequent’ at Knockan Crags by are from Breabag: at 640m. on the G.C.Druce. 161 tetrads. Widespread and edge of a small burn which drains common. Tolerant of almost any an area of late snow-lie west of conditions: dry or wet grassland, Meall Diamhain, and in an area of Geum urbanum L. woodland, heath and rocky flushed stony grassland at 660m. Machall Coille hillsides. First recorded in 1767 on Fuarain Ghlasa. First recorded Wood Avens near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. in 1946 by E.C.Wallace from NC21, and from NC22 during the 2 tetrads. Rare in the north-west 1950s survey for the first Atlas. It of Scotland as a whole. One is interesting that the record in record is from a shady roadside McVean and Ratcliffe (1962) is verge at Nedd and the other from woodland at Rhicarn.

104 Flowering plants and ferns

3 3 3

2 2 2

1 1 1

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3

First recorded in 1993 at the The former site had eight plants in The site, just north of the second of these sites. 1998. Presumably the plants were Inchnadamph Hotel, is described brought in on machinery; it will be there as the ‘rabbit-grazed south- interesting to see if they establish. facing slopes of a shallow valley’. Dryas octopetala L. Subsequently, F.J.Roberts located Machall Monaidh it there in 1973, 1988 and 1998, Mountain Avens Alchemilla alpina L. commenting on its close Trusgan association with a long outcrop of Alpine Lady’s-mantle dark grey limestone running down the valley side and contrasting 3 with paler country rock.

3 2 Alchemilla filicaulis Buser 2 Fallaing Moire Chaol 1 Lady’s-mantle

1 0 1 2 3 3 22 tetrads. Calcicole. Where 0 1 2 3 there is outcropping limestone, Mountain Avens can grow 87 tetrads. In dry rocky places, 2 abundantly on ledges and in the screes, mountain ledges and well- drained grassland. Although short turf around the rocks. It 1 occurs down to about 100m., typically a plant of higher ground, decorating rocks quite close to the there are a few records at sea level. First recorded in 1767 near road at the south-eastern end of 0 1 2 3 Loch Assynt. First recorded in Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 1772 by T.Pennant and J.Lightfoot 5 tetrads. This map shows records as ‘still more abundantly for two of plants that were not flowering miles together upon a vast Alchemilla vulgaris agg. and therefore not identifiable to limestone rock called Creg- Fallaing Moire subspecies. First recorded in 1907, achnocaen’. Mapped, presumably Lady’s-mantle as ‘A. vulgaris var. filicaulis’on in error, for NC02 and NC12 in the Canisp by G.C.Druce. first Atlas. First recorded in 1894 at Knockan Crags ‘in the hairy and glabrous The two maps following represent forms’, by G.C.Druce. the results of our best efforts at Sanguisorba minor Scop. identification to subspecies; we A’Bhileach Losgainn make no great claims for their Alchemilla glaucescens Wallr. Salad Burnet accuracy, as it is accepted (Stace Fallaing Moire 1997) that there are intermediates 1 tetrad. The first and only record Lady’s-mantle between the two subspecies in for Assynt was made in 1997 at Scotland. A.J.Wilmott and Ardvar. A plant was noted 1 tetrad. This Red Data Book M.S.Campbell were the first, in growing on the edge of a small species was first recorded in 1953 1943/44, to record what are now industrial area and a second one on by S.M.Walters and referred to in ssp. filicaulis and ssp. vestita, not the verge of a private road nearby. Mountain Flowers (Raven and far apart on the Achmelvich road, Walters 1956).

105 Flora of Assynt but queried their distinctiveness in high on rocks near its source and but most frequent on the higher the Highlands. the other on shingle on its lower ground and in limestone areas. reaches. It has also been found First recorded in 1899 at ssp. filicaulis amongst gneiss boulders by the Inchnadamph as ‘A. vulgaris L. outflow of Loch a’Choire Dheirg var. alpestris’ by C.E.Salmon. on Glas Bheinn. First recorded by G.P.Rothero in 1995 at the last 3 named of these three sites. Alchemilla mollis (Buser) Rothm. Lady’s-mantle

2 Alchemilla wichurae (Buser) Stefánsson 1 Fallaing Moire 3 Lady’s-mantle

2 0 1 2 3

39 tetrads. Damp grassland in sun 3 1 or light shade. No discernible difference in habitat requirements 2 between this and ssp. vestita. 0 1 2 3

1 3 tetrads. A garden escape, self- ssp. vestita (Buser) M.E.Bradshaw seeding readily and able to establish itself given reasonably open conditions. Recorded from 0 1 2 3 Lochinver, Nedd and Unapool. 3 First recorded in 1998 from the 4 tetrads. One record is from water-side rocks in a base-rich area second of these sites.

2 of Glas Bheinn; two are from Bealach Traligill, one in basic grassland and one on an outcrop of Aphanes arvensis L. 1 the Fucoid Beds, and the fourth Spìonan Moire above Loch Mhaolach-coire. First Parsley-piert recorded in 1953 by S.M.Walters, 0 1 2 3 at an altitude of 90m. near

Inchnadamph, and at 305m. above 46 tetrads. Damp grassland in sun Loch Mhaolach-coire. 3 or light shade. No discernible difference in habitat requirements between this and ssp. filicaulis. 2 Alchemilla glabra Neygenf.

Fallaing Moire Mhìn

Lady’s-mantle 1 Alchemilla glomerulans Buser

Fallaing Moire Lady’s-mantle 0 1 2 3

3 2 tetrads. On tracks and disturbed ground, at Nedd and Lochinver. 3 2 There is in addition, in tetrad NC13W, one record of A. arvensis s.l., which was too immature to 2 1 identify further. The aggregate was first recorded from NC12 1 during the 1950s survey for the 0 1 2 3 first Atlas. 40 tetrads. On rocky grassland, 0 1 2 3 beside burns and waterfalls, where

it tolerates constant drenching. 3 tetrads. Two records are from Scattered throughout the parish, the Allt Poll an Droighinn, one

106 Flowering plants and ferns

Aphanes australis Rydb. on their visits in 1943 and 1944, R. canina, once thought to be (A. microcarpa (Boiss. & Reut.) also collected material which was virtually absent from Scotland, Rothm. ‘named with the assistance of does occur occasionally. First Spìonan Moire Caol Dr.Melville’. A summary of these collected in 1955 at Oldany by Slender Parsley-piert and other records made up to 1960 J.Anthony (det. A.L.Primavesi). or so may be found in Anthony. Groups represented are: Dumales As part of a recent reassessment of (1996, Achadhantuir, R.Maskew), the British rose taxa, which is Pubescentes (1995, NC13, 3 summarised in Graham and P.A.Evans; 1996, Achmelvich, Primavesi (1993), a large number R.Maskew) and Transitoriae of specimens collected by earlier (1955, Oldany, J.Anthony; 1994, 2 botanists, especially Marshall, Ardroe, P.A.Evans; 1996, have been re-examined and re- Achmelvich, R.Maskew). 1 determined, by these authors and others. The first records given below are based on their work. Rosa x dumalis Bechst. 0 1 2 3 R. canina x R. caesia

7 tetrads. Rare, in small disused Rosa pimpinellifolia L. quarries, on tracks and bare Ròs Beag Bàn na h-Alba disturbed ground generally. Burnet Rose 3 Mapped from NC12 in the Critical Supplement. 2 3 Rosa spp. 1 Roses 2 A very high proportion of the roses 0 1 2 3 in Assynt, especially those in 1 exposed situations in the hills, 6 tetrads. Found on the river bank neither flower nor fruit and at Inverkirkaig, in grassland by therefore could not be identified; 0 1 2 3 Loch Culag, on a roadside verge at their occurrence has not been Little Assynt and in two places on mapped. In the early years of the 54 tetrads. Most frequent on the stony shores of Loch Assynt. survey, all roses were determined coastal cliffs and crags but also First recorded in 1996 at by A.L.Primavesi or G.G.Graham. spreading across almost to the Achadhantuir by R.Maskew. Latterly, with this experience as a eastern boundary of the parish, on guide, they have been determined outcrop rocks, along burn courses by P.A.Evans using Graham & and in gorges. Only rarely seen Rosa caesia Sm. Primavesi (1993). Hedges do not out on the open hillside. First exist in Assynt and habitats for all recorded in 1890 at Inchnadamph. ssp. caesia species, apart from R. Hairy Northern Dog-rose pimpinellifolia, seem to be a random mix of light woodland, Rosa canina L. Not recorded during the present scrub, walls, burn courses, cliffs Ròs nan Con survey. First collected in 1890 at and gorges. In most cases Dog-rose Lochinver and Inchnadamph by therefore, a habitat description for E.S.Marshall. a particular species has not been attempted. 3 ssp. glauca (Nyman) G.G.Graham The first records of roses in Assynt & Primavesi were made in 1886 by A.Gray, Ròs nan Con Tuathach who reported ‘R. canina, R. mollis 2 Glaucous Northern Dog-rose and R. tomentosa’. E.S.Marshall and colleagues, on their visits from 1 5 tetrads. Found beside a burn 1887 onwards, collected material north of Suilven, in a wooded of a bewildering mix of species, gorge near Creagan Mór, on the hybrids, varieties and forms. 0 1 2 3 shore of Cam Loch and on a

A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell, roadside verge at Unapool. 10 tetrads. It is now accepted that

107 Flora of Assynt

First collected in 1889 at 3 tetrads. Found on the shores of Lochinver by G.C.Druce. Later Loch Assynt and Fionn Loch and 3 records are from Kylesku by also in Culag Wood. First F.J.Hanbury in 1890 and by collected in 1890 at Inchnadamph E.S.Marshall in 1908, and at and Kylesku by E.S.Marshall. 2 Achmelvich and Oldany in 1955 by J.Anthony. 1 Rosa x sabinii Woods R. mollis x R. pimpinellifolia Rosa x involuta Sm. R. sherardii x R. pimpinellifolia Not seen during the present survey. 0 1 2 3 First collected in 1890 near Loch First collected in 1890 at Kylesku Not seen during the present survey. Assynt by F.J.Hanbury. by E.S.Marshall, and also by him First collected in 1908 at in 1908 at Inchnadamph. In 1955 Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall. it was found at Stoer by J.Anthony Rosa rubiginosa L. and in 1996 at Achadhantuir by Dris Chùbhraidh R.Maskew. Rosa x rothschildii Druce Sweet-briar R. sherardii x R. canina

Rosa caesia x R. sherardii 3 3

2 3 2

1 2 1

0 1 2 3 1 0 1 2 3 1 tetrad. An isolated bush found in an isolated place, on the path to 0 1 2 3 1 tetrad. The first and only record was made in 1996 at Achadhantuir Cnocnaneach in 1995; an unlikely 1 tetrad. Recorded in 1994 by the by R.Maskew. record, but has been confirmed. River Traligill. First collected in First recorded in 1989 at 1908 at Inchnadamph and Kylesku Inchnadamph by R.Maskew and by E.S.Marshall. Rosa x suberecta (Woods) Ley also by him, in 1996, at Lochinver. R. sherardii x R. rubiginosa

Rosa sherardii Davies Not seen during the present survey. Rosa x suberecta (Woods) Ley Ròs Shioraird First collected in 1908 at Kylesku R. rubiginosa x R. sherardii Sherard’s Downy-rose by E.S.Marshall. Not seen during the present survey. First collected in 1908 at Rosa mollis Sm. Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall.

3 Ròs Bog

Soft Downy-rose Prunus spinosa L. 2 Preas nan Airneag Blackthorn

1 3 9 tetrads. Blackthorn is rare in the north-west of Scotland and in 2 Assynt it occupies two distinct 0 1 2 3 habitats: small, suckering patches of roadside or riverside scrub, and 13 tetrads. This is the species 1 most often identified and the map very occasional scattered therefore gives the best idea of the populations in heathland or rough grassland. most favourable areas for roses. 0 1 2 3

108 Flowering plants and ferns

making fine specimens, on cliffs or These west-facing limestone cliffs outcrop rock beside burns. Also in rise from a very steep, scree- 3 woodland especially at Nedd. littered grassy slope and the trees First recorded in 1886 ‘Calda Burn grow a few metres up from the –Ledbeg’by A.Gray base of the cliff, where they are 2 safe from grazing animals. A southern group of 13 trees is 1 Sorbus aucuparia L. scattered over a length of 300m. Caorann and nearly a kilometre to the north Rowan there are two further specimens. 0 1 2 3 Both groups are at an altitude of about 150m. First recorded as The bushes are usually quite ‘Pyrus aria’ in 1827 on ‘limestone densely covered with lichen and 3 rocks, Assynt’ by R.Graham. The often carry flowers, but little fruit. locality is given as Inchnadamph One exception was a single, young in Anderson (1834), and further bush at Glenleraig, in a sheltered, 2 refined in 1907 to ‘growing out of sunny position, which had no the limestone precipices of Blàr lichen cover but was bearing a 1 nam Fiadhag’ by G.C.Druce. heavy crop of sloes. First recorded in 1886 ‘Torbreck-Inchnadamph’ by A.Gray. Although many are 0 1 2 3 Cotoneaster simonsii Baker associated with areas of past Cotaineastar Hiomàilianach habitation, the most south-easterly 140 tetrads. The most Himalayan Cotoneaster record, in NC21Q, consists of a widespread, although not the few well-grazed bushes in scree on commonest, tree in Assynt, the south-facing slopes of Cnoc na ascending higher up the hills than Sròine, in an area shown as wood- birch. The fact that the berries are 3 land by Home in 1774 and far favoured food of the thrush family from any habitation. is responsible for its appearance in some unlikely places. At 500m. in 2 the southernmost tip of the parish, Prunus avium (L.) small, grazed ‘buns’ of rowan can 1 Geanais be found at the foot of the Wild Cherry boundary marker stones which provide tempting perches for birds 0 1 2 3 During the present survey, planted in this most barren landscape. trees were noted at Glencanisp First recorded in 1767 near 5 tetrads. All presumably bird- Lodge in NC12B and Rientraid in Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. sown, with a recognisable garden NC13W. First recorded in NC21 seed source not far away. They during the 1950s survey for the have colonised, and thrive on, first Atlas. Sorbus rupicola (Syme) Hedl. cliffs and rocky loch shores. First Gall-uinnsean na Creige recorded in 1994 on the banks of a Rock Whitebeam burn at Tumore. Prunus padus L. Fiodhag Bird Cherry Crataegus monogyna Jacq. 3 Sgìtheach Hawthorn 2 3 11 tetrads. The status of hawthorn in the north of Scotland is difficult 1 2 to determine. In some places, such as Lochinver, it has clearly been planted, and has given rise to bird- 1 0 1 2 3 sown offspring in the vicinity.

Some well-established and 2 tetrads. A very rare calcicole, probably very old trees grow on confined to two separate stretches 0 1 2 3 limestone crags from the Ardvreck of the Creag Sròn Chrùbaidh cliffs. peninsula south to Stronechrubie. 13 tetrads. Isolated trees, often

109 Flora of Assynt

absence of more precise F.J.Hanbury ‘with flowers twice as information the credit must go to large as usual’. 3 T.H.Fowler for his record on this site in 1987. Lotus pedunculatus Cav. 2 (L. uliginosus (Schkuhr)) Anthyllis vulneraria L. Barra-mhìslean Lèana 1 Cas an Uain Greater Bird’s-foot-trefoil Kidney Vetch

0 1 2 3 3 Hawthorn is not a woodland tree in 3 Assynt. First recorded in 1833 as ‘one bush…on a rock at Loch 2 Assynt’ by R.Graham. 2 1 1 FABACEAE 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 Astragalus danicus Retz. 2 tetrads. In rough wet grassland Bliochd-pheasair Chorcra 13 tetrads. Found most frequently by the road to Glencanisp Lodge Purple Milk-vetch on coastal cliffs and in sandy and alongside a ditch bordering grassland, but there are inland sites some species-rich grassland at on the limestone at Elphin and Inchnadamph. First recorded in Inchnadamph. First recorded 1981 by N.T.H.Holmes at two sites 3 during the 1950s survey for the on the River Inver, near Brackloch first Atlas. and Little Assynt.

2 Lotus corniculatus L. Vicia orobus DC. 1 Barra-mhìslean Peasair Shearbh Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil Wood Bitter-vetch

0 1 2 3

2 tetrads. An unknown lady 3 3 botanist mentioned to T.H.Fowler, a fellow guest at the Inchnadamph Hotel, that she had seen a small 2 2 population of this plant in limestone grassland on the 1 1 Ardvreck Castle peninsula. He saw it there first in 1987 and it still flourishes in the same restricted 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 area. The other Assynt site is a patch of sandy grassland beside the 139 tetrads. Widespread, 12 tetrads. Confined to cliffs and track leading to Clachtoll car-park. flourishing in even small patches crags too steep to graze, within It was found there in 1993 by of grassland. On burn banks, at three km. of the sea. First A.McG.Stirling and A.A.P.Slack the base of cliffs and outcrop rock recorded in 1943 between and here also it still flourishes. and on the occasional patch of Achmelvich and Stoer by This is essentially an east coast richer turf up in the hills. Only A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. plant and these sites represent a absent from high and rocky terrain. great extension of its range, but it A component of commercial seed should be borne in mind that the mixes, var. sativus, which at first Vicia cracca L. Clachtoll dunes have been glance resembles L. pedunculatus, Peasair nan Luch extensively restored and planted has been found once on a roadside Tufted Vetch with introduced Marram. First verge at Nedd. The species was recorded by ‘the unknown lady first recorded in 1890 near 49 tetrads. The main distribution botanist’ at Ardvreck, but in the Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall and follows the coast and roads, where

110 Flowering plants and ferns

3 3 3

2 2 2

1 1 1

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 it is found on clifftops, roadside First recorded in 1907 near First recorded in 1767 near verges, in ditches and other rough, Inchnadamph by G.C.Druce. Inchnadamph by J.Robertson as lowland grasslands. First recorded ‘Orobus tuberosus’. Lightfoot in 1943 on coastal rocks at (1777) remarks that ‘The Imirfada by A.J.Wilmott and Vicia sativa L. Highlanders have great esteem for M.S.Campbell. Peasair Chapaill the tubercles of the roots of this Common Vetch plant’.

Vicia sylvatica L. Peasair Coille Lathyrus pratensis L. Wood Vetch 3 Peasair Bhuidhe Meadow Vetchling

2

3 1 3

2 2 0 1 2 3 1 2 tetrads. These are two, not very 1 meaningful records; the one in the 0 1 2 3 south, is a plant in rough grassland alongside a road at Inverkirkaig 0 1 2 3 2 tetrads. A rare species found and the one in the north, which only on cliffs, perhaps because of was identified as ssp. nigra, in 42 tetrads. As the map shows, the grazing pressure. Noted once from heath vegetation on the edge of rough lowland grassland which a sea cliff at Port a’Ghleannain and Loch Nedd. First recorded in the this species prefers is best once from a cliff at Stoer, about 1950s survey for the first Atlas provided by roadside verges and one km. inland. First recorded in from three hectads, in none of coastal areas. First recorded in 1886 at Clachtoll by A.Gray. which it has been seen during the 1943, at the edge of a marsh near Subsequent records came from the present survey. This may reflect Drumbeg, by A.J.Wilmott and Stoer/Clachtoll area. the reduction in the amount of M.S.Campbell. cultivation in the area.

Vicia sepium L. Trifolium repens L. Peasair nam Preas Lathyrus linifolius (Reichard) Seamrag Bhàn Bush Vetch Bässler White Clover (L. montanus Bernh.) 62 tetrads. Widespread and Cairt Leamhna 133 tetrads. Widespread and common in rough grassy places, Bitter-vetch common, growing almost along roadside verges and in light everywhere there is grass; not woodland. 119 tetrads. Common and found on bare rocky hills. widespread in grassland, scrub, boulder scree and amongst heather on the hill.

111 Flora of Assynt

3 3 3

2 2 2

1 1 1

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3

First recorded during the 1950s First recorded in 1774 at Little old shieling areas, where it may survey for the first Atlas. Assynt by J.Home, in ‘the first have been used for browse or to specimen of sown Grass that ever shelter stock. It has also colonised was made in the Country…such gravels on the River Loanan. First Trifolium campestre Schreb. stalks of red Clover the surveyor recorded in 1886 ‘Inchnadamph- Seamrag Bhuidhe never saw, each stalk being Loch Inver’ by A.Gray. Hop Trefoil incredibly great, resembling the thickness of a large bean when cut Not seen during the present survey. in the Month of July.’ Perhaps Ulex gallii Planch. First recorded in 1886 at similar to today’s agricultural Conasg Siarach Inchnadamph by A.Gray. varieties? Western Gorse

Trifolium dubium Sibth. Cytisus scoparius (L.) Link Seangan (Sarothamnus scoparius (L.) 3 Lesser Trefoil Wimmer ex Koch) Bealaidh Broom 2

3 1

3 2 0 1 2 3

2 1 1 tetrad. First recorded in 1943 by A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell 1 ‘on a hillside south of Lochinver, 0 1 2 3 towards Lady Constance Bay’. This record must surely be 26 tetrads. Confined to dry, thinly 0 1 2 3 represented by the small vegetated places, such as population, holding its own but not roadsides, quarries and waste 7 tetrads. May well be an increasing, on one area of open ground. First recorded in 1894 introduction to this area. Its few hillside in Culag Wood. ‘near Elphin and Ledbeg’, by occurrences are confined to G.C.Druce as ‘T. minus’. roadsides, walls and the vicinity of houses. First recorded during the HALORAGACEAE 1950s survey for the first Atlas. Trifolium pratense L. Seamrag Dhearg Myriophyllum spicatum L. Red Clover Ulex europaeus L. Snàthainn Spìceach Conasg Spiked Water-milfoil 68 tetrads. Roadside verges, Gorse coastal grassland and in patches of Not seen during the present survey. richer vegetation along burn and 58 tetrads. Patchy in its First recorded in 1886 from river valleys. distribution, but often plentiful ‘Elphin-Inchnadamph’ by A.Gray. where it does occur. It covers some areas of hillside, usually south-facing, is scattered along roadsides and occurs in patches in

112 Flowering plants and ferns

Myriophyllum alterniflorum DC. Snàthainn Bhàthaidh Alternate Water-milfoil 3 3

2 2

3 1 1

2

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 1 this, it appears to be absent from as a garden weed at Ardvar’ the west coast of mainland Judging by its national distribution 0 1 2 3 Scotland north of the Great Glen; it it has almost certainly been will be interesting to see if it introduced. 113 tetrads. Widespread and survives. common in burns and the shallow part of lochs. First recorded in Epilobium obscurum Schreb. 1886 in the River Loanan at Epilobium parviflorum Schreb. Seileachan Faireagach Inchnadamph by A.Gray. Seileachan Liath Short-fruited Willowherb Hoary Willowherb

LYTHRACEAE Not seen during the present survey. Recorded for NC02 during the 3 1950s survey for the first Atlas. Lythrum salicaria L. Lus na Sìochaint 2 Purple Loosestrife Epilobium montanum L. Seileachan Coitcheann 1 Not seen during the present survey. Broad-leaved Willowherb A probable garden escape, recorded by A.J.Wilmott and 0 1 2 3 M.S.Campbell in 1943, on the ‘brick wall of the garden of the 3 36 tetrads. Occasional on Culag Hotel, Lochinver’ and in roadside verges, in ditches and 1944 from a rocky valley at marshy ground. First recorded in Achmelvich. Found again at 2 1887 ‘near Skaig [sic] Bridge, Achmelvich in 1972 and at Loch Loch Assynt’ by E.S.Marshall, and Ruighean an Aitinn in 1988 (a 1 in 1944, by A.J.Wilmott and garden runs down to the shore of M.S.Campbell as a ‘garden weed, this loch). Culag Hotel, Lochinver.’ It was 0 1 2 3 only recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas in NC02 ONAGRACEAE 69 tetrads. Flourishes in a variety and 22, since when it seems to of habitats, both dry and damp. have spread considerably. Widespread in open, ruderal Epilobium hirsutum L. situations, cracks in rock faces and Seileachan Mòr in marshy ground. First recorded Epilobium x marshallianum Great Willowherb in 1767 near Inchnadamph by Hausskn. J.Robertson. E. obscurum x E. anagallidifolium 1 tetrad. Not previously recorded for Assynt, it was found during the ‘A very curious plant’ was present survey on a roadside verge Epilobium tetragonum L. collected in 1887 by E.S.Marshall just outside Lochinver in 1999 and (E. adnatum Griseb.) ‘by a rill above the path from was still there in 2001. Apart from Seileachan Gas Ceithir-cheàrnach Inchnadamph to Ben Mor of Square-stalked Willowherb Assynt at about 1600ft.’ It was identified by him as a hybrid new 1 tetrad. Not previously recorded to science and named in his honour for Assynt, this species was noted by Haussknecht. Not recorded during the present survey in 1998 since in West Sutherland, and only

113 Flora of Assynt known elsewhere in the British generally, marshes, bogs and Imir Fada. First recorded in 1899 Isles from Stirlingshire. ditches. First recorded in 1943 in a by C.E.Salmon ‘by the Traligill ‘ditch north of Lochinver’ by Burn above Inchnadamph’ and in A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. the Allt nan Uamh valley. Epilobium x rivulicola Hausskn. E. obscurum x E. alsinifolium Epilobium anagallidifolium Lam. Epilobium brunnescens Not seen during the present survey. Seileachan Ailpeach (Cockayne) P.H.Raven & First recorded in 1899 ‘by the Alpine Willowherb Engelhorn Traligill Burn above Inchna- (E. nerterioides Cunn.) damph by C.E.Salmon and also by Seileachan Làir him, according to Anthony, in 1900 New Zealand Willowherb in the Allt nan Uamh valley. 3

2 Epilobium ciliatum Raf. 3 Seileachan Aimeireaganach American Willowherb 1 2

0 1 2 3 1 3 16 tetrads. In bryophyte flushes, stony flushes and on burn sides, 0 1 2 3 2 usually at over 500m. First recorded in 1899 on Glas Bheinn 63 tetrads. A notable success 1 and the north slopes of Canisp by story, even for a willowherb. First C.E.Salmon. recorded in Britain in 1908, it was another 60 years before it was seen 0 1 2 3 in Assynt, although judging by its Epilobium x boissieri Hausskn. present distribution, it has 4 tetrads. Introduced into Great E. anagallidifolium x E. probably been here longer than Britain in 1891, it has appeared in alsinifolium that. Unlike many introductions, Assynt only rarely: as a garden which rely solely on man-made weed at Clachtoll, in a small Not seen during the present survey. habitats and disturbed ground for roadside quarry at Little Assynt, First recorded in 1899 on Glas their spread, this one has on the sea wall at Lochinver and Bheinn by C.E.Salmon. succeeded by colonising river beside the track leading to the Star shingle, waterside boulders and Pool on the River Inver. First shady cliffs, as well as wall-tops recorded in 1992 from the last of Epilobium alsinifolium Vill. and stonework generally. First these sites. Seileachan Fliodhach recorded in 1969 on the banks of Chickweed Willowherb the River Loanan by A.W.Punter.

Epilobium palustre L. Seileachan Lèana Chamerion angustifolium (L.) Marsh Willowherb 3 Holub (Chamaenerion angustifolium (L.) Scop.) 2 Seileachan Frangach 3 Rosebay Willowherb 1 22 tetrads. Apart from a few 2 occurrences in small roadside 0 1 2 3 quarries, this species is scattered 1 thinly on cliffs, both coastal and 5 tetrads. Considerably rarer than inland. the preceding species, although 0 1 2 3 found in similar habitats. Recorded from Airigh na Beinne, 97 tetrads. The commonest Allt nan Uamh valley, Bealach willowherb in Assynt, growing in Traligill, Beinn an Fhuarain and

114 Flowering plants and ferns

comments in Perring (1968) quoted above, this may well refer 3 to C. x intermedia. There are no 3 further details of the Achmelvich record. 2 2

1 Circaea x intermedia Ehrh. 1 C. lutetiana x C. alpina Lus na h-Oighe 0 1 2 3 Upland Enchanter’s-nightshade 0 1 2 3

This is the natural habitat of First recorded in 1767 near rosebay willowherb in the north- Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. west and it is seen here at its best, 3 in small groups rising elegantly from a rock crevice – not in gaudy AQUIFOLIACEAE bands along a roadside! 2

1 Ilex aquifolium L. Circaea spp. Cuileann Holly There has, in the past, been 0 1 2 3 considerable confusion in the recording of this genus. In the 24 tetrads. Woodland is one of its light of the comments on C. alpina main habitats and this accounts for 3 in Perring (1968), it seems likely the coastal distribution of the that all the historic records of this records. Scree and shaded rocks species should be referred to C. x are other, less common sites. First 2 intermedia. recorded as ‘C. alpina’ at Inchnadamph in 1886 by A.Gray 1 and in 1890 by E.S.Marshall and Circaea lutetiana L. F.J.Hanbury; probably! Fuinseagach 0 1 2 3 Enchanter’s-nightshade [Circaea alpina L. 71 tetrads. Widespread in Lus na h-Oighe Ailpeach woodland and also on crags, out of Alpine Enchanter’s-nightshade the way of browsing animals. 3 Essentially a lowland tree, but Not seen during the present survey given the shelter of a gorge or a and unlikely to occur. See burn valley it can extend some 2 preceding notes on the genus.] distance up into the hills. It does not tolerate exposure well and 1 trees which grow up out of their CORNACEAE shelter soon become stunted. Despite its occurrence throughout 0 1 2 3 much of the parish, it does not fruit Cornus suecica L. readily, perhaps suggesting that it 1 tetrad. Only found once during (Chamaepericlymenum suecicum is not entirely suited by the the present survey (and identified (L.) Aschers. & Graebn.) climate. First recorded in 1774 in with some care!), in 1998, from Lus a’Chraois the ‘Wood of Tumore’ by J.Home. scree at Clachtoll. Anthony cites Dwarf Cornel this species from Lochinver and Achmelvich. The Lochinver 19 tetrads. Amongst heather on EUPHORBIACEAE record appears, from Anthony’s high, heathy grassland. card index, to be that of ‘C. alpina’, made in 1944 by Euphorbia helioscopia L. A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell ‘in Lus nam Foinneachan the crevices of a roadside stone Sun Spurge wall about a mile north of Lochinver’. In view of the 5 tetrads. All the records are of

115 Flora of Assynt

Polygala serpyllifolia Hosé Siabann nam Bansìdh 3 3 Heath Milkwort

2 2

3 1 1

2

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 1 garden weeds, often in potato grassland. Also on the hills, where patches. Found at Achmelvich, there are patches of sweeter grass Clachtoll, Clashnessie and Stoer. amongst the heather, but absent 0 1 2 3 It may have been commoner years from some of the very high ago, when there was more ground. First recorded, throughout 151 tetrads. Widespread and extensive cultivation. First the parish, in the 1950s survey for common in grassland and amongst recorded, from NC02, in the 1950s the first Atlas. heather. Apparently tolerant of a survey for the first Atlas. range of soils. First recorded in 1886, without a specific locality, Linum usitatissimum L. by A.Gray, as ‘P. depressa’. Euphorbia peplus L. Flax Lus Leighis Petty Spurge Found in two places in a garden in HIPPOCASTANACEAE Nedd in 1995 but it did not appear the following year. Recorded, in 2001, on a verge at Baddidarach. Aesculus hippocastanum L. 3 Craobh Geanm-chnò Fhiadhaich Horse-chestnut POLYGALACEAE 2 Occasional trees planted in gardens and grounds. 1 Polygala vulgaris L. Lus a’Bhainne Common Milkwort ACERACEAE 0 1 2 3

4 tetrads. On newly made Acer pseudoplatanus L. roadside verges at Elphin, 3 Craobh Pleantrainn Lochinver and Nedd and once in a Sycamore garden, also at Nedd. This suggests that it has been brought 2 into the area during roadworks, unlike the preceding species, 1 3 which is surviving in cultivated ground. First recorded in 1890 as 2 ‘a weed at Lochinver’ by 0 1 2 3 E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. 48 tetrads. Frequent in grassland 1 in the limestone areas and in sandy LINACEAE coastal grassland. Scattered records from the gneiss, often in 0 1 2 3 the vicinity of ultrabasic dykes. Linum catharticum L. First recorded (possibly) in 1767, 28 tetrads. Introduced, but Lìon nam Ban-sìdh near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson established along roadsides, near Fairy Flax (P. serpyllifolia was not houses, on rocky loch shores and differentiated at that time). in screes. Reproduces 124 tetrads. Widespread and Recorded unambiguously in 1894, successfully, judging by the common in coastal and inland at Knockan by G.C.Druce. appearance of seedlings in a number of places. There are some

116 Flowering plants and ferns fine specimens of Sycamore in the present survey, at Inverkirkaig. common except on the highest vicinity of Lochinver Harbour. First recorded in 1944 as a ground. Will tolerate shade and is First recorded in 1886 at ‘garden weed, Culag Hotel, found in woodland, in gorges, Inchnadamph by A.Gray with the Lochinver’ by M.S.Campbell. around outcrop rock and is caveat ‘probably not native’. particularly characteristic of boulder scree. First recorded in Geranium molle L. 1767 near Inchnadamph by OXALIDACEAE Crobh Preachain Mìn J.Robertson. Dove’s-foot Crane’s-bill

Oxalis acetosella L. Erodium cicutarium (L.) L’Hér. Feada Coille Gob Corra Wood-sorrel 3 Common Stork’s-bill

2

3 3 1

2 2

0 1 2 3 1 1 18 tetrads. All but one of the records are from sandy coastal 0 1 2 3 grassland or roadside verges near 0 1 2 3 the sea. The only exception is 142 tetrads. Common and from the banks of the River 4 tetrads. Sandy grassland near widespread wherever there is good Loanan. First recorded during the the sea at Clachtoll and Stoer. drainage and a little shade and 1950s survey for the first Atlas. First recorded, from NC02, in the shelter provided by vegetation or 1950s survey for the first Atlas. rock. It grows in woodland, on moorland and on open hillsides Geranium lucidum L. under bracken. For a plant of such Crobh Preachain Deàlrach TROPAEOLACEAE apparent fragility it flourishes in Shining Crane’s-bill surprisingly open conditions, perhaps because of the high Imported with garden material to Tropaeolum speciosum Poepp. & atmospheric moisture. First Nedd in 1991 and has survived and Endl. recorded in 1767 near spread within the garden for 10 Flame Nasturtium Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. years. Recorded, rather surprisingly, in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. GERANIACEAE 3

Geranium robertianum L. Geranium dissectum L. Lus an Ròis 2 Crobh Preachain Geàrrte Herb-Robert Cut-leaved Crane’s-bill 1

3 0 1 2 3 3 1 tetrad. Introduced. Probably an 2 escape from a nearby garden, but 2 long established and flourishing in a patch of Blackthorn scrub by the 1 1 roadside at Strathcroy (NC03).

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 101 tetrads. Widespread and 1 tetrad. Found once during the

117 Flora of Assynt

BALSAMINACEAE APIACEAE Anthriscus sylvestris (L.) Hoffm. Costag Fhiadhain Cow Parsley Impatiens glandulifera Royle Hydrocotyle vulgaris L. Lus a’Chlogaid Lus na Peighinn Indian Balsam Marsh Pennywort 3

2 3 3

1 2 2

1 1 0 1 2 3

9 tetrads. In lowland, grassy 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 places, almost always those affected in some way by man or 2 tetrads. A recent, and very 25 tetrads. In wet places; his activities. Ditchsides, invasive, garden escape, it has marshes, river margins and loch disturbed ground near houses and a established itself on the banks of shores, but with a strong coastal small field where cattle are fed, burns close to two gardens, one at tendency. It is able to tolerate have been recorded. Apart from Clashnessie and one at Nedd. If seasonal changes in loch levels and one at Elphin, roadside populations left alone there is every reason to appears sometimes to be growing are rare. First recorded in the suppose that it will continue to in water, with floating leaves. 1950s survey for the first Atlas. flourish. First recorded in 2000 at First recorded in 1767 near both sites. Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Myrrhis odorata (L.) Scop. Mirr ARALIACEAE Sanicula europaea L. Sweet Cicely Bodan Coille Sanicle Hedera helix L. Eidheann 3 Ivy 3 2

2 3 1

1 2 0 1 2 3

1 0 1 2 3 7 tetrads. Introduced and naturalised in a few places, 58 tetrads. Frequent, as might be surviving in abandoned gardens, 0 1 2 3 expected, in woodland, but also in and on roadside verges, with other other habitats which provide garden throw-outs. First recorded 91 tetrads. It is characteristically similar sheltered and moist during the 1950s survey for the associated with rock in its many conditions such as boulder scree, first Atlas. forms: in scree, on both inland and gorges and rocky loch shores. coastal cliffs, on outcrops and in First recorded in 1942 on a gorges. It is quite uncommon to ‘wooded rocky slope between Conopodium majus (Gouan) Loret see ivy clothing a tree trunk or Achadhantuir and Feadan’ by Cnò-thalmhainn sprawling on the ground in A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. Pignut woodland. First recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 93 tetrads. Common and widespread, except in areas where most of the ground lies over 500m.

118 Flowering plants and ferns

There are good populations around Peucedanum ostruthium (L.) Bàgh an t-Strathain and on the W.D.J.Koch 3 banks of the River Culag by the Mòr-fhliodh bridge in Lochinver. It occurs also Masterwort at Achmelvich and one plant was 2 found growing at the back of the shingle in a small inlet just south 1 of Stoer Lighthouse. First 3 recorded in 1943 in a ‘drainage channel by sea in bay south of 2 0 1 2 3 Strathan’ by A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. Found in grassy heath where there 1 is some nutrient enrichment, open woodland and grassland. First Ligusticum scoticum L. recorded as ‘Bunium Sunais 0 1 2 3 bulbocastanum’ (see Henderson Scots Lovage and Dickson 1994) in 1767 near 1 tetrad. The first and only record Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. was made by A.Scott in 1994 on Eilean Assynt, an island in Loch 3 Assynt, where it flourishes. There Aegopodium podagraria L. was a ‘fortalice’on this site in the Lus an Easbaig 14th century and other remains Ground-elder 2 indicate some mediaeval presence there. The date of the introduction 1 of Masterwort is quite unknown.

3 0 1 2 3 Heracleum sphondylium L. Odharan 2 22 tetrads. Thinly scattered on Hogweed maritime cliffs and rocks, usually 1 where grazing sheep cannot reach. First recorded in 1890 by E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. 3 0 1 2 3

24 tetrads. In gardens, disturbed Angelica sylvestris L. 2 ground near houses and on Lus nam Buadh roadside verges. First recorded in Wild Angelica 1 1886 on an ‘island in Loch Assynt (garden escape)’ by A.Gray. 0 1 2 3 3 Oenanthe crocata L. 33 tetrads. Occasional on rough, Dàtha Bàn Iteodha ungrazed grassland and roadside Hemlock Water-dropwort 2 verges. First recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 1

3 Daucus carota L. 0 1 2 3 Curran Fiadhain Wild Carrot 2 139 tetrads. Common and widespread in a great variety of 10 tetrads. Dune grassland and 1 habitats. Open woodland, roadside verges near the sea. maritime cliffs and wet places such as marshes, burn and river 0 1 2 3 margins. First recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 5 tetrads. All sites are coastal.

119 Flora of Assynt

First recorded as ‘Lochinver 1944’ in Anthony and in 1958 in NC03 3 3 by J.G.Urquhart and R.B.Knox.

2 2 Datura stramonium L. Thorn-apple 1 1 A plant was found in 1992 in a long-unused, cold greenhouse at 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 Glenleraig. Provenance unknown.

First recorded in 1943 at First recorded in 1886 at Achadhantuir (where it is still Inchnadamph by A.Gray. CONVOLVULACEAE common by the roadside) by A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. Gentiana verna L. Convolvulus arvensis L. Spring Gentian Iadh-lus GENTIANACEAE Field Bindweed

Gentianella campestris (L.) Börner 3 Lus a’Chrùbain 3 Field Gentian 2 2

1 3 1

0 1 2 3 2 0 1 2 3 1 tetrad. The rarest of the plants 1 comprising the Inchnadamph 1 tetrad. The first and only record ‘zoo’, a group of species was made by C.Warwick in 1999, introduced and maintaining in an overgrown part of her garden 0 1 2 3 themselves on a limestone outcrop in Lochinver. at Glac Mhòr. First recorded in 34 tetrads. Frequent in acid 1997. (See also records of grassland, occasionally on roadside Campanula, Erinus, Silene and Calystegia sepium (L.) R.Br. verges. The maps for this species Phyteuma). Dùil Mhial and the following are to some Hedge Bindweed extent complementary, reflecting the different soils on which they [Gentiana nivalis L. occur. Lus a’Chrùbain Sneachada Alpine Gentian 3

Gentianella amarella (L.) Börner Reported (in error for Gentianella ssp. septentrionalis (Druce) amarella ssp. septentrionalis?) in 2 N.M.Pritch. 1896 ‘on rocks by Ardvreck Lus a’Chrùbain Tuathach Castle’ by Lowe (1899); referred 1 Autumn Gentian to by Druce (1908).]

19 tetrads. Scattered on basic 0 1 2 3 grassland, dune grassland and SOLANACEAE roadside verges. 6 tetrads. All the records are from gardens, where it persists, Solanum dulcamara L. scrambling over hedges and Searbhag Mhilis fences. Found at Balchladich, Bittersweet Clashnessie, Drumbeg, Lochinver, Nedd and Stoer. First recorded, in Not seen during the present survey.

120 Flowering plants and ferns the Lochinver area, during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 3 3

Calystegia pulchra Brummit & Heywood 2 2 Dùil Mhial Ghiobach Hairy Bindweed 1 1

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 3 Spreading by rhizomes, it usually was made in 1991 at Clachtoll, in forms extensive patches and sandy grassland near the sea. 2 flowers most freely when growing actually in water. First recorded in 1 1767 near Inchnadamph by Symphytum officinale L. J.Robertson. Meacan Dubh Common Comfrey 0 1 2 3 HYDROPHYLLACEAE Not seen during the present survey. 1 tetrad. One record only, from First recorded, as ‘var. Lochinver, where it grows over a purpureum’, in 1943 ‘by stream garden hedge. First recorded from Phacelia tanacetifolia Benth. below cottage, Inverkirkaig’ by Inchnadamph in Anthony, but with Phacelia A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell; no further details. Mapped for and, as the species, during the NC22 in the Critical Supplement. 1950s survey for the first Atlas.

3 Calystegia silvatica (Kit.) Griseb. Symphytum x uplandicum Nyman Dùil Mhial Mhòr S. officinale x S. asperum Lepech. Large Bindweed 2 Meacan Dubh Ruiseanach Russian Comfrey 1 Not seen during the present survey. First recorded in 1987 ‘at 0 1 2 3 Drumbeg, south side of the road by the hotel’ by A.Showler. The site 1 tetrad. The first and only record was probably destroyed by the was made in 1995, on a piece of expansion of the hotel carpark. arable land at Achmelvich. The land is no longer cultivated, but the species was surviving there in Anchusa arvensis (L.) M.Bieb. 2000. (Lycopsis arvensis L.) Lus Teanga an Daimh 1 tetrad. The first and only record Bugloss was made in 1994, in a Lochinver BORAGINACEAE garden.

Echium vulgare L. 3 MENYANTHACEAE Lus-na-nathrach Viper’s-bugloss 2 Menyanthes trifoliata L. 1 tetrad. The first and only record Trì-bhileach 1 Bogbean

120 tetrads. Common and 0 1 2 3 widespread in marshes, bog pools and shallow water in lochs. 2 tetrads. A rare weed of cultivation, whose scarcity

121 Flora of Assynt probably reflects the changes in water mark. Protected from tolerant of of acid conditions than farming patterns. The records possible damage by grazing and by the other two water forget-me- come from sandy grassland by the the feet of wandering sheep, it is nots. First recorded in 1907, as road at Culkein Stoer, where it was just managing to hold its own. ‘M. repens’, at Inchnadamph by growing with Viola arvensis, First recorded in 1886 at G.C.Druce. suggesting that there is a seed bank Inverkirkaig, where it has never of weeds beneath the grass; also in since been seen, although the site a blow-out in dune grassland at may have disappeared under the Myosotis laxa Lehm. Clachtoll. First recorded in 1886 road embankment. First recorded (M. caespitosa Schultz) at Clachtoll by A.Gray. at its present site at Clachtoll in Lus Midhe Dosach 1949 by M.McC.Webster. It was Tufted Forget-me-not recorded at Stoer in 1955 and from Pentaglottis sempervirens (L.) Clachtoll and Stoer in 1965, Tausch ex L.H.Bailey suggesting that there may have Bog-lus been a second site a little north of 3 Green Alkanet the present one, the precise location of which is unknown. 2

3 Myosotis scorpioides L. 1 Cotharach Water Forget-me-not 2 0 1 2 3

1 18 tetrads. Occasional in ditches 3 and marshes. First recorded in 1943, as ‘M. caespitosa’, at the 0 1 2 3 ‘north end of Balchladich Bay’ by 2 A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. 3 tetrads. Two records are from roadside verges at Torbreck and 1 Achmelvich, where it grows with Myosotis arvensis (L.) Hill garden throw-outs and builder’s Lus Midhe Aitich rubble. The third comes from 0 1 2 3 Field Forget-me-not more ‘natural-looking’ surroundings, in the wooded 7 tetrads. Uncommon in marshes grounds of Glencanisp Lodge. and ditches. First recorded in 1907 First recorded in 1886 at Elphin by as ‘M. palustris var. strigulosa’ at 3 A.Gray and subsequently from Inchnadamph by G.C.Druce. Stoer in 1958 by J.Anthony. 2 Myosotis secunda Al.Murray Mertensia maritima (L.) Gray Lus Midhe Ealaidheach 1 Tìodlach na Mara Creeping Forget-me-not Oysterplant 0 1 2 3

3 17 tetrads. Occasional in dry 3 places on roadsides, in gardens and disturbed ground. First recorded in 2 1943 as a ‘garden weed, Culag 2 Hotel, Lochinver’ by A.J.Wilmott 1 and M.S.Campbell. 1

0 1 2 3 Myosotis discolor Pers. 0 1 2 3 Lus Midhe Caochlaideach 52 tetrads. Found in marshes, Changing Forget-me-not 1 tetrad. Surviving, but only just, ditches and wet places generally. in its one remaining site on a storm The commonest forget-me-not, 20 tetrads. In a variety of beach at Clachtoll well above high probably because it is more habitats: verges, disturbed ground,

122 Flowering plants and ferns

1 tetrad. The only record is of a Lamium purpureum L. stand growing beside a small burn Caoch-dheanntag Dhearg 3 at Ardroe. First recorded in NC02, Red Dead-nettle during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 2 3 1 Stachys palustris L. Brisgean nan Caorach Marsh Woundwort 2 0 1 2 3 1 gardens and marshes. First recorded in 1894, as ‘M. 3 versicolor’, ‘near Elphin and 0 1 2 3 Ledbeg’ by G.C.Druce. 2 14 tetrads. A weed of cultivation, found mostly in gardens, but LAMIACEAE 1 occasionally on disturbed ground along roadsides. First recorded during the 1950s survey for the Stachys sylvatica L. 0 1 2 3 first Atlas; also, in 1966, from Lus nan Sgor Inchnadamph by A.P.Conolly. Hedge Woundwort 26 tetrads. Occasional in marshes, ditches, and alongside rivers, usually in larger stands than Hedge Lamium hybridum Vill. Woundwort. First recorded in Caoch-dheanntag Gheàrrte 3 1894 in ‘cornfields…at Elphin and Cut-leaved Dead-nettle Knockain’ by G.C.Druce. There are also records in the 1950s from 2 NC12 and in 1977 from NC22. 3 1 Lamium album L. Teanga Mhìn 2 0 1 2 3 White Dead-nettle 1 33 tetrads. Occasional in woodland, particularly alongside burns, on roadside verges and in 3 0 1 2 3 boulder scree. First recorded during the 1950s survey for the 1 tetrad. A rare casual, found on a first Atlas. 2 newly constructed soil bank in Lochinver. First recorded in 1943 1 as a ‘garden weed, Culag Hotel, Stachys x ambigua Sm. Lochinver’ by A.J.Wilmott and S. sylvatica x S. palustris M.S.Campbell. Hybrid Woundwort 0 1 2 3

2 tetrads. Both records were in Lamium confertum Fr. the Achmelvich area; one growing (L. molucellifolium Fr.) 3 as a garden weed and the other Caoch-dheanntag Thuathach amongst builder’s rubble on a Northern Dead-nettle verge. Recorded from NC01 in the 2 1950s survey for the first Atlas 1 tetrad. The only record was (but much of this hectad is in West from a garden in Clachtoll. This 1 Ross). weed of cultivation was probably much commoner in the past when arable land was more plentiful. 0 1 2 3

123 Flora of Assynt

Inverkirkaig’ by A.Gray; also in 1943 ‘amongst stones at the top of 3 3 the beach, Clashnessie Bay, where the water comes down from a small marsh above’, by 2 2 A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell.

1 1 Teucrium scorodonia L. Sàisde Coille 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 Wood Sage

First recorded in 1890, as ‘L. First recorded, s.l., during the intermedium’, in ‘cultivated 1950s survey for the first Atlas; ground, Lochinver’ by also in 1962 from NC22 by 3 E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury; R.A.R.Clarke. also in 1894, in ‘cornfields…at Elphin and Knockain’ by 2 G.C.Druce. It was recorded in Galeopsis bifida Boenn. NC02 during the 1950s survey for Bifid Hemp-nettle 1 the first Atlas.

0 1 2 3 Lamium amplexicaule L. 3 Caoch-dheanntag Chearc 100 tetrads. Common and Henbit Dead-nettle widespread in well-drained 2 situations; most frequently on cliffs, outcrop rock and in rocky 1 woodland. First recorded in 1943 3 on ‘rocks south of Lochinver’ and ‘in a gully near Inverkirkaig’ by 0 1 2 3 A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. 2 1 tetrad. The first and only record 1 was made in 1995, from a garden Ajuga reptans L. at Kerrachar. Glasair Choille Bugle 0 1 2 3 Scutellaria galericulata L. 2 tetrads. In gardens at Clachtoll Cochall and Culkein Stoer. This is another Skullcap 3 example of a plant which would have been more frequent years ago when there was a greater area of 2 cultivation. First recorded in 3 NC02 during the 1950s survey for 1 the first Atlas. 2 0 1 2 3 Galeopsis tetrahit L. 1 Deanntag Lìn 5 tetrads. Rare, on shady banks Common Hemp-nettle beside water. Found on the stony 0 1 2 3 banks of the River Traligill just 10 tetrads. An uncommon weed above the Inchnadamph Hotel and of gardens and disturbed ground. 15 tetrads. The distribution is tied further upstream in wooded very closely to the coast. It may limestone gorges of both the main grow in the shingle at the back of river, by G.P.Rothero, and its the shore or in marshy ground tributary Allt Poll an Droighinn, by amongst Iris pseudacorus A.E.White. The largest population immediately inland. First recorded was recorded on a wooded island in 1886 on a ‘shingle beach, in Loch Awe by R.E.C.Ferreira

124 Flowering plants and ferns and A.Scott. The record from the wooded grounds of Glencanisp Lodge is probably an introduction. 3 3 First recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson and seen there again in 1890 by 2 2 E.S.Marshall. 1 1

Ajuga pyramidalis L. Glasair Bheannach 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3

Pyramidal Bugle at Rhicarn. At all three places it First recorded in 1767, as ‘T.

was probably introduced at some serpyllum’, near Inchnadamph by time in the past, possibly as a J.Robertson. substitute for hops! First recorded 3 in 1988 at the last of these three sites. [Thymus pulegioides L. 2 Lus an Rìgh Mòr Large Thyme Prunella vulgaris L. 1 Dubhan Ceann-chòsach Reported in 1907 on Quinag by Selfheal G.C.Druce; current knowledge of its distribution in Scotland makes 0 1 2 3 this seem an unlikely site.] 50 tetrads. Widespread at low altitudes in the western half of the 3 parish. Once we were familiar Lycopus europaeus L. Feòran Curraidh with its vegetative characters, we 2 found it to be surprisingly common Gypsywort on the gneiss; within the 50 tetrads, 142 sites were recorded. It 1 grows on well-drained, sunny slopes, sometimes under a light 3 covering of vegetation, usually 0 1 2 3

Calluna, and in rock crevices. Hill 145 tetrads. Widespread and very 2 ground which has been burned a common in grassland, woodland, year or two previously often heathland and on roadsides. Apart carries a large number of rosettes. 1 from some high level squares, only Only a small percentage of rosettes apparently absent from the bear flowering spikes and the notoriously barren tetrad, NC21I, apparent anomaly of a small seed 0 1 2 3 on the Canisp quartzite. Both pink source and a large number of and white-flowered forms have 4 tetrads. Rare, usually coastal. plants can be explained by the been seen, as well as the familiar In a garden at Little Assynt, in presence of fine roots, up to 20 cm. blue-violet. First recorded during saltmarsh at Baddidarach and long, which run horizontally a few the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. Badnaban and in a ditch leading to inches below the surface of the the sea at Culkein Stoer. First soil, producing new plantlets at recorded in 1992 at the last of their ends. First recorded in 1886 Thymus polytrichus A. Kern. ex these four sites. at Torbreck by A.Gray. Borbás

(T. drucei Ronn.)

Lus an Rìgh Mentha arvensis L. Glechoma hederacea L. Wild Thyme Meannt an Arbhair Eidheann Thalmhainn Corn Mint Ground-ivy 146 tetrads. Common and

widespread in dry siuations. 2 tetrads. Rare. Found beside 3 tetrads. Found beneath a garden Grows on both coastal and inland Loch Culag and at Culkein Stoer; hedge at Glenleraig, on the edge of grassland and on rock outcrops. in both instances in marshy an old field at Rientraid and in the grassland. garden of a long-abandoned croft

125 Flora of Assynt

2 tetrads. Garden escapes, in the vicinity of houses at Culkein 3 3 Drumbeg and on a verge at Unapool. First recorded in 1886 as ‘M. viridis’ at Lochinver by 2 2 A.Gray.

1 1 Mentha x villosonervata Opiz M. spicata x M. longifolia (L.) 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 Huds Sharp-toothed Mint First recorded in NC21 during the First recorded in 1886 as ‘M. 1950s survey for the first Atlas, hirsuta’, ‘Loch Assynt-Loch Awe’ and in the same hectad in 1974 by by A.Gray. U.K.Duncan. 3

Mentha x piperita L. Mentha x gracilis Sole M. aquatica x M. spicata 2 M. arvensis x M. spicata Meannt a’Phiobair (Mentha x gentilis auct. non L.) Peppermint 1 Meannt Tomach Bushy Mint 0 1 2 3 3 1 tetrad. The first and only record 3 was made in 1992, from the edge 2 of Loch Assynt near Tumore.

2 1 Mentha x villosa Huds. 1 M. spicata x M. suaveolens Ehrh. 0 1 2 3 (Mentha x cordifolia Opiz) Meanntas 0 1 2 3 5 tetrads. Found in ditches at Apple-mint Nedd and Inchnadamph, river 3 tetrads. All the records are margins at Clashnessie and Elphin garden escapes of the variegated and a loch at Drumbeg. First form. There is a well established recorded in 1943 by A.J.Wilmott 3 population in the reedswamp of and M.S.Campbell, who noted that Loch na Claise, one in the vicinity it was ‘given us at Balchladich as of an old house at Clashnessie and the culinary mint used there’. 2 one in disturbed ground at Culkein Further records were made in Drumbeg. First recorded in 1943, NC02 in the 1950s and 1960s. 1 as ‘M. gentilis L. var. variegata (Sole) Sm.’, ‘escaped among houses at Stoer, and cultivated in Mentha spicata L. 0 1 2 3 gardens at Balchladich’, by Meannt Gàrraidh A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. Spear Mint 2 tetrads. Two records of garden escapes, in disturbed ground at Culkein Drumbeg and Mentha aquatica L. Achmelvich. First recorded in Meannt an Uisge 3 1995 from the second of these Water Mint sites.

7 tetrads. Found in marshy 2 grassland and on river margins. Considering the amount of wet 1 ground that exists in the area, this species is surprisingly uncommon. 0 1 2 3

126 Flowering plants and ferns

Mentha x rotundifolia (L.) Huds. na Claise, at the mouth of a small M. longifolia (L.) Huds. x M. burn flowing into its northern Callitriche hamulata Kütz. ex suaveolens Ehrh. shore at the western end. First W.D.J.Koch (Mentha x niliaca Juss.ex Jacq.) recorded in 1977 at Loch Urigill Biolair Ioc Meadhanach False Apple-mint by D.H.N.Spence and E.D.Allen. Intermediate Water-starwort

CALLITRICHACEAE 3 3

Callitriche stagnalis Scop. 2 Biolair Ioc 2 Common Water-starwort 1 1

3 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3

1 tetrad. Found on waste ground 2 22 tetrads. The distribution of this at Lochinver in 1994. The record normally calcifuge species is in Anthony of this taxon, as ‘M. x puzzling in Assynt. It appears to niliaca’ Juss.ex Jacq., states 1 be absent from the gneiss, and is ‘Lochinver, 1944, A.J.W’., but this concentrated in the east, where at does not appear to relate to any of least some of the sites are base- the entries under Mentha in 0 1 2 3 rich. It is characteristic of high- Wilmott and Campbell (1946). level lochs and the burns that feed The record for NC02 under M. x 59 tetrads. A common plant in its them and can grow most niliaca var. webberi in the Critical preferred habitat of slow-moving, luxuriantly in deep cushions in Supplement may derive from this. shallow water and wet mud. The these situations, which are most first record was made in 1990 from frequent in the east. In view of the Achnacarnin, although in 1767 difficulty of separating this species HIPPURIDACEAE J.Robertson identified C. stagnalis from C. brutia Petagna, it is wise s.l. near Inchnadamph. to treat our records as representing C. hamulata s.l. (see Preston and Hippuris vulgaris L. Croft 1997). First recorded in Earball Capaill Callitriche platycarpa Kütz. 1908 in the River Loanan at Mare’s-tail Biolair Ioc Leathann Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall. Various-leaved Water-starwort

PLANTAGINACEAE 3 3 2 Plantago coronopus L. 2 Adharc-fèidh Buck’s-horn Plantain 1 1

0 1 2 3 3 0 1 2 3 3 tetrads. A rare aquatic. It is in or near three of the burns running 3 tetrads. Found in the burn 2 into the southern end of Loch running into Loch Mhaolach-coire Urigill: along the Allt nam Meur in from the south, in the exit burn a number of places, on an from Lochan a’Choire Ghuirm and 1 unnamed burn to the west of that, in Loch a’Chroisg. First recorded and in a pool beside the lower in 1894 in the ‘river by 0 1 2 3 reaches of the Allt an Achaidh. It falls…Ledbeg’ by G.C.Druce. also grows in a small, sheltered 31 tetrads. Found only on the bay at that end of the loch. coast; on rocks, saltmarsh and Elsewhere, only known from Loch

127 Flora of Assynt other very short turf near the sea. Recorded in 1767 by J.Robertson, Plantago lanceolata L. supposedly near Inchnadamph (see Slàn-lus 3 chapter on history of recording), Ribwort Plantain but in the light of its distribution today this seems unlikely. If so, 2 the first record is 1943, at Lochinver and Balchladich, by 3 1 A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell.

2 0 1 2 3 Plantago maritima L. Slàn-lus na Mara 1 In others the trees may be Sea Plantain descendants of native stock, or of trees introduced so long ago that 0 1 2 3 no trace of them now remains. First recorded in 1774 at 3 147 tetrads. Widespread and very ‘Knockneach’ by J.Home. common in grassland of all types. First recorded in 1767 near 2 Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. SCROPHULARIACEAE

1 Littorella uniflora (L.) Asch. Verbascum thapsus L. Lus Bòrd an Locha Coinneah Moire Shoreweed 0 1 2 3 Great Mullein

131 tetrads. A misleading name in Assynt, as the map shows. As well as rock, saltmarsh and short 3 3 turf by the sea, this plantain is widespread inland, on roadsides 2 and in stony and rocky places in 2 the hills. First recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 1 1

Plantago major L. 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 Cuach Phàdraig Greater Plantain 116 tetrads. Common and 1 tetrad. A rare casual. The first widespread in all lochs which have record was in 1996 from waste suitably shallow water around the ground at Lochinver; also on the margins. Also found in slow- imported soil of a new roadside 3 moving rivers and burns. First verge at Baddidarach in 2001. recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 2 Scrophularia nodosa L. Lus nan Cnapan OLEACEAE 1 Common Figwort

18 tetrads. Occasional in light Fraxinus excelsior L. 0 1 2 3 woodland, scrub, ditches and Uinnseann boulder scree; also a frequent weed 78 tetrads. Confined to roadsides Ash around Lochinver. and waste places near buildings. It may grow for a short distance 19 tetrads. The status of Ash trees along tracks running into the hills, in Assynt is often difficult to presumably carried on the feet of determine. In some places they people or animals. First recorded are clearly planted, well during the 1950s survey for the established and reproducing first Atlas. successfully from seed.

128 Flowering plants and ferns

at Lochinver by V.Gordon, whose Digitalis purpurea L. material was determined by Lus nam Ban-sìdh 3 R.H.Roberts. Foxglove

2 Mimulus x burnetii S.Arn. M. guttatus x M. cupreus 3 1 Dombrain Coppery Monkeyflower 2 0 1 2 3 1 First recorded in 1886 as ‘Loch 3 Assynt – Loch Inver’ by A.Gray. 0 1 2 3 2 Mimulus guttatus DC. 128 tetrads. Widespread and Meilleag an Uillt 1 common in well-drained, Monkeyflower sheltered, but not shaded, places. Banks of watercourses, scree, 0 1 2 3 heaths, very light woodland, disturbed ground and roadsides. 3 3 tetrads. In ditches and burns at First recorded during the 1950s Badnaban, Culkein Stoer and survey for the first Atlas. Inverkirkaig, near gardens from 2 which it has presumably escaped. First collected in 1958 at Erinus alpinus L. 1 Clashnessie by M.M.George and Meuran Sìdh determined as this hybrid. Fairy Foxglove Material from Inverkirkaig 0 1 2 3 collected by V.Gordon was thought by R.H.Roberts to be of 13 tetrads. Introduced but well the same parentage. 3 established on a number of burns, ditches and river margins. First recorded in 1988 from Mimulus x maculosus T.Moore 2 Clashnessie. This may be the M. luteus L. x M. cupreus species referred to by E.S.Marshall Dombrain 1 in 1887 as ‘M. luteus L….well Scottish Monkeyflower established at Inchnadamph’. 0 1 2 3

Mimulus x robertsii Silverside 3 1 tetrad. Introduced and M. guttatus x M. luteus L. maintaining itself in the Hybrid Monkeyflower Inchnadamph ‘zoo’, on a limestone 2 outcrop at Glac Mhór. (See also Campanula, Gentiana, Phyteuma, 1 Silene). First recorded in 1992 at 3 this site.

0 1 2 3 2 Veronica serpyllifolia L. 1 tetrad. The first and only record Lus-crè Talmhainn 1 was made in 1999 at Culkein Thyme-leaved Speedwell Stoer, where the plant was growing in a ditch. ssp. serpyllifolia 0 1 2 3 79 tetrads. Common in the hills in 2 tetrads. Established in burns grassland, as a garden weed and in and ditches at Nedd and waste ground. Glenleraig. First collected in 1961

129 Flora of Assynt

Veronica chamaedrys L. 12 tetrads. Uncommon. In Nuallach ditches, or rarely on the edge of 3 Germander Speedwell burns, mainly in limestone areas. Shows a definite preference for the vicinity of houses, where adjacent 2 ditches and watercourses may 3 benefit from some ‘enrichment’! 1 First recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas from 2 NC21, 22 and 23. 0 1 2 3 1 First recorded during the 1950s Veronica anagallis-aquatica L. survey for the first Atlas. Fualachdar 0 1 2 3 Blue Water-speedwell ssp. humifusa (Dicks.) Syme 96 tetrads. Common in light woodland and lowland grassland, both basic and acidic, often 3 3 growing beneath bracken. First recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 2 2 1 1 Veronica scutellata L. Lus-crè Lèana Marsh Speedwell 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 1 tetrad. In a deep peaty ditch 6 tetrads. Rare. In wet places in running into the south-eastern end the hills, particularly in bryophyte- 3 of Loch Urigill. First recorded in dominated flushes. First recorded 1886 as ‘V. anagallis’ in the in 1886 on Conival by A.Gray; ‘Cromalt Hills’ by A.Gray. also in 1907 on Canisp by 2 Record queried by Anthony and G.C.Druce. the species was not shown in the 1 Assynt area in the first Atlas, but Gray’s record has now been Veronica officinalis L. vindicated. Lus-crè Monaidh 0 1 2 3 Heath Speedwell 17 tetrads. Occasional in marshes, Veronica arvensis L. ditches and on river margins. First Lus-crè Balla recorded in 1949 in a ‘bog by Loch Wall Speedwell 3 Culag’ by M.McC.Webster.

2 Veronica beccabunga L. 3 Lochal Mothair 1 Brooklime 2

0 1 2 3 1 3 105 tetrads. Widespread in dry heath, well-drained grassland and 0 1 2 3 rock crevices. First recorded in 2 1943 ‘in a gully near Inverkirkaig’ 28 tetrads. Occasional in open, by A.J.Wilmott and 1 dry habitats such as walls, M.S.Campbell. disturbed and cultivated ground and occasionally on rocks. First 0 1 2 3

130 Flowering plants and ferns recorded during the 1950s survey been recorded and mapped, but the for the first Atlas. hybrids, which are legion, were 3 beyond our capabilities!

Veronica agrestis L. Lus-crè Arbhair 2 Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Green Field-speedwell Rostrup 1 ssp. borealis (F.Towns.) Yeo

3 0 1 2 3 3 First recorded in 1957 on a ‘grassy 2 roadside, Lochinver’ by R.A.Graham and R.M.Harley. 2 1 1 Veronica hederifolia L. 0 1 2 3 Lus-crè Eidheannach Ivy-leaved Speedwell 0 1 2 3 3 tetrads. Disturbed ground at Achmelvich, Clashnessie and Not seen during the present survey. 51 tetrads. The commonest Lochinver. First recorded in 1894 First recorded in 1886 at Elphin by eyebright in grassy places and in ‘cornfields at Elphin and A.Gray. particularly common along Knockain’ by G.C.Druce; also in roadsides. First recorded as ‘E. 1966 at Inchnadamph by brevipila’ in 1899 in a meadow at A.P.Conolly. Melampyrum pratense L. Inchnadamph by C.E.Salmon, and Càraid Bhuidhe under its current name by Anthony Common Cow-wheat in the 1950s. Veronica persica Poir. Lus-crè Gàrraidh Common Field-Speedwell Euphrasia nemorosa (Pers.) Wallr. 3

2 3 3

1 2 2

1 0 1 2 3 1

60 tetrads. Scattered on dry 0 1 2 3 heaths and in open woodland. 0 1 2 3 Occasional plants were noted with 6 tetrads. A weed of cultivation very striking dark red-purple 4 tetrads. One coastal record at and on disturbed ground along marks on the corolla. First Glenleraig and three from basic roadsides. First recorded in 1943 recorded in 1887 on Loch Assynt grassland at Stronechrubie, banks in ‘Culag Hotel garden, Lochinver’ by E.S.Marshall. of the River Loanan and the Allt by A.J.Wilmott and M.S. a’Bhealaich. First recorded in Campbell. 1998 from the last of these sites. Euphrasia officinalis agg. No historic record has been found Lus nan Leac which can safely be attributed to Veronica filiformis Sm. Eyebright this species. Lus-crè Claidh Slender Speedwell We have recorded Euphrasia spp. from 115 of Assynt’s 164 tetrads, Euphrasia confusa Pugsley 9 tetrads. Introduced but so the genus is clearly widespread, spreading, in short grass associated although the number of species is 11 tetrads. Grassland, often basic, with gardens and other mown not great. With initial help from in the hills. First recorded in 1943 areas. A.J.Silverside, nine species have on a ‘roadside bank north of Stoer’

131 Flora of Assynt

4 tetrads. Short coastal turf at Clachtoll, Culkein Stoer, Stoer 3 Lighthouse and Stoer village. First 3 recorded in 1953 at Clachtoll by M.McC.Webster. 2 2

1 Euphrasia ostenfeldii (Pugsley) 1 Yeo

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 by A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell 3 First recorded in 1899 at (det. H.W.Pugsley). Other Inchnadamph by C.E.Salmon; also validated records were made from in 1943 ‘on a slope south of the Inchnadamph area and at 2 Lochinver’ by A.J.Wilmott and Clachtoll during the 1950s survey M.S.Campbell. for the first Atlas. 1

Euphrasia scottica Wettst. Euphrasia frigida Pugsley 0 1 2 3

4 tetrads. On open, gravelly soils on the limestone, alongside the 3 3 River Traligill and the Allt nan Uamh, and in the Bealach Traligill. First recorded in 1908 as ‘a 2 2 dwarfed form of ‘E. curta…on limestone in the valley of the Allt 1 1 nan Uamh’ by E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury and subsequently, in 1956, by G.Halliday in NC21. 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 37 tetrads. Frequent in damp 9 tetrads. A hill species, from Euphrasia marshallii Pugsley flushes. First recorded in 1899 at Bealach Traligill, Beinn an Inchnadamph by C.E.Salmon. Fhuarain, Canisp, Corrag Ghorm, Quinag, Suilven and Glas Bheinn (where it was recorded on the 3 An as yet unpublished taxon, summit at 746m.). First recorded provisionally called E. in 1956, from two localities at the fharaidensis by A.J.Silverside, was southern end of Breabag by 2 recorded in 1998 from the back of D.N.McVean. the saltmarsh at Loch Ardbhair, 1 NC13R, (conf. A.J.S.).

Euphrasia foulaensis F.Towns. ex Although no consistent effort was Wettst. 0 1 2 3 made to collect material of suspected hybrids, specimens of 7 tetrads. A Red Data Book the following were identified by species, growing in short turf by A.J.Silverside: 3 the sea. First recorded in 1953 on Euphrasia arctica borealis x ‘basic rocks’ at Stoer by micrantha from NC13B. U.K.Duncan. Euphrasia arctica borealis x 2 scottica from NC11N and 22L. Euphrasia foulaensis x micrantha 1 Euphrasia micrantha Rchb. from NC13B.

76 tetrads. The most widespread The records of hybrids from eyebright in dry habitats in the Assynt recorded in Anthony are 0 1 2 3 hills, usually associated with difficult to evaluate in terms of Calluna. current nomenclature.

132 Flowering plants and ferns

Odontites vernus (Bellardi) borealis are recorded for Assynt in ssp. lintonii (Wilmott) P.D.Sell Dumort. Anthony. Modhalan Coitcheann Red Bartsia ssp. minor 3

2 3 3

1 2 2

1 1 0 1 2 3

8 tetrads. In grassy places quite 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 high in the hills.

12 tetrads. Grassland, disturbed 3 tetrads. In two places on ssp. borealis (Sterneck) P.D.Sell ground and roadsides, in coastal Quinag and at Stronechrubie. Also areas. First recorded in 1890 at recorded in NC02, 03 and 12 in the Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall and Critical Supplement. F.J.Hanbury; from NC22 by 3 K.M.Goodway et al. in 1953 and ssp. stenophyllus (Schur) by B.Burrow in 1977. O.Schwartz 2

Rhinanthus minor L. 1 Modhalan Buidhe 3 Yellow-rattle 0 1 2 3 2 1 tetrad. In basic grassland by the 3 1 Allt nan Uamh. Also recorded in NC11, 12 and 22 in Critical Supplement. 2 0 1 2 3

1 21 tetrads. The most widespread Pedicularis palustris L. of the subspecies identified and the Lus Riabhach most consistently lowland. Marsh Lousewort 0 1 2 3 ssp. monticola (Sterneck) 85 tetrads. Widespread in grassy O.Schwartz places, but in small quantities. Not 3 seen growing abundantly, as in southern haymeadows. In a very 2 large number of cases it was not 3 possible to identify to subspecies because the top of the main stem 1 had been bitten off by sheep or 2 deer. Five subspecies were recorded and mapped, but we have 1 0 1 2 3 not emerged with any very clear idea of their habitat preferences. 45 tetrads. Frequent in lowland First recorded as ‘R. crista-galli’ in 0 1 2 3 wet places. The dots on the map 1767 near Inchnadamph by illustrate well the course of the J.Robertson. A variety of montane 9 tetrads. In both acidic and basic river valleys, and therefore and lowland forms were reported grassland, including roadsides. the position of the marshes. First from 1899 onwards, and sspp. Also recorded in NC02 and 03 in recorded in 1767 near stenophyllus, monticola and the Critical Supplement. Inchnadamph by J. Robertson.

133 Flora of Assynt

Pedicularis sylvatica L. This record does not seem to have Utricularia australis R.Br. Lus Riabhach Monaidh been queried later, but could Lus nam Balgan Lousewort perhaps have referred to an Bladderwort aberrant form of P. lusitanica.]

3 Pinguicula vulgaris L. 3 Mòthan Common Butterwort 2 2

1 1 3

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 2

142 tetrads. Widespread and 23 tetrads. Occasional in shallow common on heaths and acid 1 peaty pools and small, sheltered, grassland. Usually in drier places loch inlets. We have never been than the preceding species. First seen it in flower. First recorded in recorded in 1767 near 0 1 2 3 1938, as U. neglecta, at Little Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Assynt by P.M.Hall. 156 tetrads. Widespread and common on wet heaths. First LENTIBULARIACEAE recorded in 1767 near Utricularia stygia G.Thor Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Lus nam Balgan Lochlannach

Nordic Bladderwort Pinguicula lusitanica L.

Mòthan Beag Bàn Utricularia spp. Pale Butterwort Bladderworts

3 Flowering material occurs only very rarely in this part of Scotland 3 and all species have therefore been 2 determined by microscopic examination of the quadrifid hairs. 2 Bladderworts in Assynt fall into 1 three ‘groups’, which are 1 vegetatively distinct. U. vulgaris 0 1 2 3 and australis are splits of the old U. vulgaris, but in the absence of 54 tetrads. Widespread, 0 1 2 3 flowers they are indistinguishable particularly on the gneiss, in from one another; on geographical shallow, still water, able to survive 74 tetrads. Common in bogs and grounds therefore, they have all on wet mud during periods of wet heaths on the western side of been mapped as U. australis, as temporary low water. We have the parish. Sometimes in quite also have those recorded as ‘U. never seen it in flower. First bare stony flushes and demanding vulgaris s.l.’ in the Scottish Loch recorded in 1992 from Camas nam wetter conditions than P. vulgaris. Survey of 1988. What was Bad. First recorded in 1886 ‘Lochinver formerly known as U. intermedia – Beinn Garbh’ by A.Gray. is now considered to consist of three species: U. intermedia s.s., Utricularia ochroleuca U. stygia and U. ochroleuca. U. R.W.Hartm. [Pinguicula alpina L. intermedia s.l. was first recorded Lus nam Balgan Bàn Alpine Butterwort in 1886 in Loch Awe by A.Gray. Pale Bladderwort U. intermedia s.s. has never been E.S.Marshall (1885) notes that ‘In recorded from Assynt. The third 3 tetrads. In habitats similar to the the late summer of 1884 ‘group’ is Utricularia minor only other species, but rarely seen. Mr.W.J.Ball of Harrow gathered P. (thank goodness). alpina near the sea at no great elevation in the Lochinver district of Sutherland (a new record).’

134 Flowering plants and ferns

Campanula rotundifolia L. 1 tetrad. Introduced and Currac Cuthaige maintaining itself in the 3 Harebell Inchnadamph ‘zoo’, on a limestone outcrop at Glac Mhór. (See also Erinus, Gentiana, Phyteuma and 2 Silene). First recorded in 1992 at 3 this site. 1

2 Phyteuma scheuchzeri All. 0 1 2 3 Oxford Rampion 1 Flowers, as usual, absent. First recorded in 1993 at Leathad

Lianach. 0 1 2 3 3

8 tetrads. The ‘bluebell of Utricularia minor L. Scotland’ is conspicuous by its 2 Lus nam Balgan Beag absence from most of the parish. Lesser Bladderwort Most of the records are from the 1 verges of new sections of the road between Skiag Bridge and Lochinver, which underwent major 0 1 2 3 3 re-construction and re-alignment in the 1970s. Exceptions are at a 1 tetrad. A highly successful point near Calda House, where 2 member of the Inchnadamph ‘zoo’, harebells are growing away from where it was introduced by persons the road on limestone grassland, unknown at some time in the past. 1 and at Inveruplan, on a disused It thrives in fissures of a limestone section of the road, cut off during outcrop at Glac Mhór. (See also the roadworks. The most Campanula, Erinus, Gentiana and 0 1 2 3 interesting case, which shows that Silene). As it is no longer found the species is not really suited by on the wall of the Oxford college, 31 tetrads. Scattered apparently conditions here, is a long-disused, this is now probably its only randomly throughout the parish, small, roadside quarry at Ardvar, station in the British Isles. First mostly, although not entirely, away where one or two plants have recorded by G.M.Richards and from the limestone areas. We have appeared and flowered every year A.E.White in 1992. once seen this species in flower. for about 20 years without Recorded in 1883 by R.Graham, increasing. First recorded in 1767 ‘found in flower only once in a at Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Lobelia dortmanna L. small pool near the base of Recorded during the 1950s survey Flùr an Lochain ‘Speckanconich, Assynt, by Mr for the first Atlas from NC03 and Water Lobelia Parnell’. We have been unable to 21. trace a locality of this name in Assynt, but there is one on Ben Mór Coigach in Wester Ross. The Campanula cochleariifolia Lam. 3 first definite record is from Fairy’s-thimble ‘Achumore’ in 1886 by A.Gray. 2

CAMPANULACEAE 3 1

[Campanula latifolia L. 2 0 1 2 3 Guc Mòr Giant Bellflower 1 93 tetrads. A calcifuge, widespread and common except in Not seen during the present survey. the east of the parish where most Recorded as an introduction in 0 1 2 3 of the lochs are base-rich. Grows

1953 by V.Gordon from NC22.] around the margins of lochs where

135 Flora of Assynt the substrate is peat, sand or fine Galium odoratum (L.) Scop. stones. The second most common, Lus a’Chaitheimh after Littorella, of the rosette Woodruff 3 aquatics. Characteristic of our most nutrient-poor lochs. First recorded during the 1950s survey 2 for the first Atlas. 3 1

RUBIACEAE 2 0 1 2 3 1 Sherardia arvensis L. grassland, coastal grassland and on Màdar na Machrach roadside verges. First recorded in Field Madder 0 1 2 3 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 22 tetrads. Occasional in woodlands and boulder scree; 3 sometimes growing in very dry Galium sterneri Ehrend. conditions on crags. First recorded Màdar Cloich-aoil in 1886 at ‘An Coilean’ by A.Gray. Limestone Bedstraw 2

1 [Galium uliginosum L. Màdar Uaine 3 Fen Bedstraw 0 1 2 3 Unlikely, but reported in 1886 by 2 1 tetrad. One plant on the edge of A.Gray at Lochinver.] a small carpark at Unapool. First 1 recorded in the 1950s survey for the first Atlas from NC03. Galium palustre L. Mèdar Lèana 0 1 2 3 Common Marsh Bedstraw Galium boreale L. 9 tetrads. Confined to limestone Màdar Cruaidh areas, where it grows in grassland Northern Bedstraw and on rocks. First recorded in 3 1890 ‘on limestone, about Inchnadamph’ by E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury and then, in 1925, 2 3 at Knockan by G.C.Druce.

1 2 Galium saxatile L. Màdar Fraoich 1 0 1 2 3 Heath Bedstraw

108 tetrads. Widespread and 0 1 2 3 common in marshes, ditches, wet woodland and on river banks. 3 86 tetrads. Frequent on rocky First definitely recorded during the stream banks, dry heath and cliff 1950s survey for the first Atlas. ledges. First recorded in 1943 Subspecies elongatum was 2 from ‘rocks in the River Inver, recorded in 1969 from NC02. Lochinver’ by A.J.Wilmott and 1 M.S.Campbell. Galium verum L. Lus an Leisaich 0 1 2 3 Lady’s Bedstraw 156 tetrads. Common and 29 tetrads. Occasional in basic widespread in woodland, dry

136 Flowering plants and ferns heath, rocks, boulder scree and all presumably bird-sown, tree on Lonicera periclymenum L. types of grassland. First recorded, limestone scree at Stronechrubie, Lus na Meala as ‘G. montanum’, in 1767 near its distribution shows a clear link Honeysuckle Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. with houses; what is less clear is the reason for this. The bushes only flower occasionally and fruit Galium aparine L. rarely, so it would be unrewarding 3 Garbh-lus as a crop. However, in the past, Cleavers the plant was valued as a defence against witches’ charms and the 2 leaves used for treating wounds. First recorded in 1767 near 1 3 Inchnadamph by J.Robertson.

0 1 2 3 2 Viburnum opulus L. Caor-chon 96 tetrads. Widespread except on 1 Guelder-rose high ground. Sometimes in open woodland, but most often on rock faces in gorges and on outcrops 0 1 2 3 along sheltered burn and river 3 courses. First recorded in 1767 42 tetrads. Occasional on near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. disturbed ground and roadsides; more often amongst the stones at 2 the back of a beach. First recorded ADOXACEAE in 1943 ‘on the beach at 1 Clashnessie’ by A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. Adoxa moschatellina L. 0 1 2 3 Mosgadal Moschatel [Cruciata laevipes Opiz 7 tetrads. A rare shrub, usually (Galium cruciata (L.) Scop.) growing singly on or near the Not seen during the present survey. Lus na Croise margin of a watercourse. The The first and only record was made Crosswort Rivers Inver and Kirkaig provide by G.C.Druce in 1894 at Knockan good examples. First recorded in Crags ‘sparingly at the base of an Reported, as ‘Valantia cruciata’, 1886 at Inchnadamph by A.Gray. overhanging rock…most northerly in 1767 near Inchnadamph by station yet recorded in Britain’. J.Robertson.] Symphoricarpos albus (L.) S.F.Blake VALERIANACEAE CAPRIFOLIACEAE Sùbhag Sneachda Snowberry Valerianella locusta (L.) Laterr. Sambucus nigra L. Leiteis an Uain Droman Common Cornsalad Elder 3

2 3 3 1 2 2

0 1 2 3 1 1 2 tetrads. Naturalised in wooded grounds in the Lochinver area. 0 1 2 3 First recorded in 1992 in the 0 1 2 3 grounds of Glencanisp Lodge. 1 tetrad. A casual, growing in a 20 tetrads. Apart from one,

137 Flora of Assynt garden at Kerrachar. First recorded, as ‘V. olitoria’, in 1886 at Achmelvich Bay by A.Gray. 3 3

Valerianella carinata Loisel. 2 2 Keel-fruited Cornsalad 1 1

3 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3

montane heath, only growing to a First recorded in 1886 as ‘Ben 2 few centimetres in height. Usually More, Assynt – Cama Loch blue, but white and pink forms (descends to 400 feet)’ by A.Gray. 1 have also been seen. First The 1950s record for NC02, recorded in 1767 near mapped in the first Atlas, seems Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. unlikely. 0 1 2 3

1 tetrad. A chance introduction ASTERACEAE Carduus nutans L. into a garden, where it has seeded Fòthannan Crom itself for a number of years. First Musk Thistle recorded in 1997 at Nedd. Arctium minus s.l. Leadan Liosda A casual, not seen during the Burdock present survey. First and only Valeriana officinalis L. record is of ‘one plant in a waste Carthan Curaidh field opposite the Youth Hostel at Common Valerian Achmelvich’, found in 1958 by 3 M.McC.Webster .

2 3 Cirsium vulgare (Savi) Ten. Cluaran Deilgneach 1 Spear Thistle 2

1 0 1 2 3 3 15 tetrads. Regrettably not 0 1 2 3 enough attention was paid to more precise determinations and we are 2 100 tetrads. Widespread and unable to say whether records frequent in marshes, wet roadside should be ascribed to A. minus, s.s. 1 ditches and alongside burns and or A. nemorosum. Grows in waste rivers. First recorded in 1767 near places, disturbed ground and Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. gardens. Occasionally also up in 0 1 2 3 the hills, where fleece-borne burrs have introduced plants to places 94 tetrads. Common in lowland DIPSACACEAE where sheep lie up. First recorded areas, predominantly on roadsides, in 1943 as ‘A. vulgare’, ‘in a disturbed ground and in gardens. midden at Feadan’, by A.J.Wilmott Windblown thistledown has given Succisa pratensis Moench and M.S.Campbell. rise to occasional plants by ruins Ura-bhallach and sheep folds in the hills. First Devil’s-bit Scabious recorded during the 1950s survey Saussurea alpina (L.) DC. for the first Atlas. 156 tetrads. A ubiquitous species Sàbh-lus Ailpeach seemingly unaffected by soil type Alpine Saw-wort or aspect, growing from sea level to the hilltops. In the latter it 18 tetrads. In the hills, on cliffs, survives and flowers in stony rocks and outcrops by burns.

138 Flowering plants and ferns

Cirsium heterophyllum (L.) Hill Cluas an Fhèidh Melancholy Thistle 3 3

2 2

3 1 1

2

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 1 between Skiag Bridge and Kylesku First recorded in 1944, in a in 1998. This is the first and only plethora of forms, at Achmelvich 0 1 2 3 record. by A.J.Wilmott and M.S. Campbell. 53 tetrads. In scree, wet heath and beside burns, particularly in Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop. gorges where there is some shelter. Fòthannan Achaidh Lapsana communis L. Occasionally in woodland, where, Creeping Thistle Duilleag Bhràghad because of the shade, it rarely Nipplewort flowers. First recorded in 1767 as ‘C. helenoides’ near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 3 3

Cirsium palustre (L.) Scop. 2 Cluaran Lèana 2 Marsh Thistle 1 1

0 1 2 3 3 0 1 2 3 58 tetrads. Almost entirely confined to waste ground and 17 tetrads. Occasional in 2 verges, where it was probably woodland, waste places and along brought in during roadworks. roadsides. First recorded in 1890 1 Rarely seen as a component of ‘on limestone rocks near grassland. First recorded during Inchnadamph’ by E.S.Marshall the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. and F.J.Hanbury, with the 0 1 2 3 comment ‘at least a mile from house or garden…can hardly be 123 tetrads. Widespread and Centaurea cyanus L. otherwise than indigenous here’. common, not only in ditches, Gorman marshes, wet woodland and burn Cornflower sides, but also in drier grassland Hypochaeris radicata L. and roadside verges. White Not seen during the present survey. Cluas Cait flowered plants occur, sometimes The first and only record was made Cat’s-ear in quite extensive patches. First in 1899 from ‘a cultivated field, recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph’ by C.E.Salmon. Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 3 Centaurea nigra L. Cirsium x celakovskianum Knaf Cnapan Dubh C. arvense x C. palustre Common Knapweed 2

1 tetrad. A single specimen of 70 tetrads. Most frequent on 1 this hybrid was confirmed from a roadsides and in coastal grassland. small quarry beside the road Also in the hills, where there is some better soil in the patches of 0 1 2 3 grassland alongside burns.

139 Flora of Assynt

123 tetrads. Widespread and the lessening of cultivation, as the common in unshaded habitats; all first record, made in 1894 ‘in corn- types of grassland and in rock fields…at Elphin and Knockain’ 3 crevices. First recorded during the by G.C.Druce, suggests. 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 2 Sonchus oleraceus L. Leontodon autumnalis L. Bainne Muice 1 Caisearbhan Coitcheann Smooth Sow-thistle Autumn Hawkbit 0 1 2 3

3 and in woodland, as well as on 3 cultivated and disturbed ground. First recorded, as ‘T. spectabile’, 2 in 1908 on the River Traligill by 2 E.S.Marshall and W.A.Shoolbred. 1 Anthony records four ‘species’ 1 from Assynt: officinale (Section Ruderalia); palustre (Section 0 1 2 3 Palustria); spectabile (Section 0 1 2 3 Spectabilia) and laevigatum 7 tetrads. A rare weed of (Section Erythrosperma).The two 132 tetrads. Widespread and cultivation and disturbed ground. maps that follow are the results of common on roadsides, waste First recorded during the 1950s the efforts of visiting botanists. ground and grassy places. First survey for the first Atlas. recorded in 1887 near Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall. Taraxacum faeroense (Dahlst.) Sonchus asper (L.) Hill Dahlst. Searbhan Muice Tragopogon pratensis L. Prickly Sow-thistle Feusag a’Ghobhair Goat’s-beard 3

Not seen during the present survey. 3 The first and only record was made 2 in the early 1960s at Clashnessie 2 by A.G.Kenneth. 1

1 Sonchus arvensis L. 0 1 2 3 Bliochd Fochainn Perennial Sow-thistle 0 1 2 3 5 tetrads. First recorded in 1988 from NC11W during the BSBI 35 tetrads. Occasional along Monitoring Survey. roadsides, in waste ground and 3 rock fissures, in coastal and, less frequently, inland areas. First Taraxacum unguilobum Dahlst. recorded during the 1950s survey 2 for the first Atlas.

1 3 Taraxacum spp. Beàrnan Brìde 2 0 1 2 3 Dandelions

2 tetrads. At Clachtoll, where it 151 tetrads. We have made no 1 occurs rarely on shingle and attempt to have the dandelions boulder beaches and in one place investigated and the map below at the foot of a roadside wall. A shows how widespread the genus 0 1 2 3 species whose frequency reflects is. Found in all types of grassland

140 Flowering plants and ferns

2 tetrads. First recorded in 1993 on Beinn nan Cnaimhseag, where by A.McG.Stirling at Manse Loch. it still occurs. 3 Serious recording of local Crepis paludosa (L.) Moench hawkweeds began with the visit of Lus Curain Lèana 2 E.S. Marshall and F.J.Hanbury in Marsh Hawk’s-beard 1890 (the latter being one of the 1 acknowledged experts in the group), with substantial additions in 1908, when Marshall returned 3 0 1 2 3 with W.A.Shoolbred. G.C.Druce had recorded a few species in 1894 places. Outcrop rocks, walls and and 1907, C.E.Salmon some in 2 rocky grassland on light soils. 1899. After this flurry of interest, First recorded in 1767 near especially in the species of the 1 Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. limestone around Inchnadamph, there was only sporadic recording in the following fifty years, by 0 1 2 3 Hieracium spp. R.H.Williamson in the 1920s, Hawkweeds A.J.Wilmott in the 1940s, and 83 tetrads. An uneven distribution D.C.McClintock, R.A.Graham and for which there seems no obvious Hawkweeds are one of the largest J.Anthony in the 1950s. reason. Commonest along burn and most difficult groups in the courses and in wet woodland. British flora, and about a quarter of Between 1961 and 1986, First recorded in 1894 ‘near Elphin the 261 British species are found in A.G.Kenneth made a major and Ledbeg’ by G.C.Druce. the north-western Highlands, some contribution to our knowledge of being restricted to it. A few the hawkweeds of West distinctive species may be named Sutherland, especially its hills, his Crepis capillaris (L.) Wallr. in the field, but identification material being verified by C.West Lus Curain Mìn generally depends on the and P.D.Sell. H. kennethii, so Smooth Hawk’s-beard examination of carefully collected named ‘in recognition of his fine voucher specimens by one of a work over many years’, was handful of specialists in this group. collected by him on Cnoc na Changes, still ongoing, in Creige north of Glas Bheinn. His 3 nomenclature and species real enthusiasm was reserved for concepts, require the re- areas to the north of Assynt, examination of herbarium material especially Foinaven, but he did 2 and can render difficult the visit most of the hills in the parish. interpretation of older records. He was fairly scathing about the 1 paucity of the hawkweeds on some Happily, much of the historical of them, for example Canisp, material collected in Assynt, for visited in 1985, recording in his 0 1 2 3 instance by E.S.Marshall, has been notebook ‘good day, wretched checked comparatively recently. hill...not a single hawkweed seen 15 tetrads. Occasional beside We have therefore been able to use in ground covered by me’! roads and tracks and in coastal most of the records summarised in R.J.Pankhurst contributed records grassland. Two records, from Anthony. Where they do not from the limestone in 1972 and Achnacarnin and Inverkirkaig, are appear to accord with the T.Edmondson some from further of var. glandulosa. First recorded distribution maps in the Critical afield in 1974. in 1894, as ‘C. virens’, ‘in Supplement, or species concepts cornfields [at] Elphin and have changed, we have sought This brings us the present day. In Knockain’ by G.C.Druce. expert opinion. 1996 one of us (I.M.E.) was persuaded by the enthusiasm of The earliest record of a hawkweed Vincent Jones, on a field course at Pilosella officinarum F.W.Schultz from Assynt is of ‘H. murinum’, Kindrogan, to start collecting & Sch.Bip. by J.Robertson in 1767, but this material in the course of general (Hieracium pilosella L.) name does not equate to any tetrad recording. Vincent paid two Srubhan na Muice modern species. Over a century visits to Assynt in 1997 and 1998, Mouse-ear Hawkweed later, in 1886, A.Gray recorded the when we concentrated on the montane species H. holosericeum limestone, and he also helped to 60 tetrads. In dry well-drained

141 Flora of Assynt weed out, from the material north shore of Cam Loch. collected, large numbers of Recorded in 1943 in a ‘rocky specimens of the commonest gulley n.e. of Inverkirkaig’ by 3 species, H. vulgatum. All other A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell material collected was kindly (probably the Badnaban locality), determined by David McCosh and and in 1953 at Inchnadamph by 2 it is on these records and Vincent's C.West. that the tetrad maps are based. 1 Since geographical coverage was inevitably uneven we have not Hieracium subcrocatum used the phrase ‘Not seen during (E.F.Linton) Roffey 0 1 2 3 the present survey’. We are most grateful to David for his critical Recorded in Anthony as collected Recorded in 1887 ‘about reading of a draft of this account in 1944 at Inverkirkaig and Inchnadamph’ by E.S.Marshall and his very helpful comments. Achmelvich by A.J.Willmott and and many times since. M.S.Campbell.

Section Foliosa Hieracium rubiginosum F.Hanb. Hieracium latobrigorum (Zahn) Roffey Recorded in 1908 on Beinn Hieracium reticulatum Lindeb. Gharbh by A.Ley, in 1959 on the Allt Poll an Droighinn, and in 1974 at Nedd by T.Edmondson. 3 This species is currently under 3 revision. 2 2 Hieracium orcadense W.R.Linton 1 1 Recorded in 1908 on the Allt Poll an Droighinn by W.A.Shoolbred, 0 1 2 3 and in 1956 at Stoer by 0 1 2 3 R.A.Graham. 3 tetrads. In the gorge between 1 tetrad. Falls on the Ledbeg Cam Loch and Loch Veyatie, on River, 1999. Not previously gneiss at Nedd and Clashnessie. Hieracium caesiomurorum Lindeb. recorded. Recorded in 1904 at ‘Inver’ by F.R.Tennant.

Hieracium strictiforme (Zahn) 3 Roffey Section Tridentata

2 Hieracium sparsifolium Lindeb. 3 1 Recorded in 1923 at Inchnadamph by R.H.Williamson and in 1977 at 2 Ledmore. 0 1 2 3

1 2 tetrads. In a wet cleft in a Section Vulgata Torridonian crag north of Cam Loch, 1997, and in the Allt nan

0 1 2 3 Uamh valley 1998 (V.Jones). Hieracium vulgatum Fries. Recorded in 1899 on Glas Bheinn 6 tetrads. Often close to water, as by C.E.Salmon, in 1952 at on the banks of Loch Assynt and 22 tetrads. The commonest Clachtoll by D.C.McClintock, and the River Inver and the shore of hawkweed by far in Assynt, on in 1974 at Achmelvich by Loch Gleannan a’Mhadaidh. crags, seacliffs and in rocky T.Edmondson. Elsewhere on crags south-east of gorges, on a variety of rock types, Badnaban, at Brackloch and on the usually in shady situations.

142 Flowering plants and ferns

Hieracium subtenue (W.R.Linton) 1 tetrad. Traligill valley, 1997 Section Oreadea Roffey (V.Jones). Recorded in 1966 on Quinag by A.G.Kenneth. Hieracium orimeles F.Hanb. ex W.R.Linton. 3 Hieracium duriceps F.Hanb.

2 3 3 1 2 2

0 1 2 3 1 1 2 tetrads. On a crag south of Loch Crocach and a picrite dyke at 0 1 2 3 Alltana’bradhan. Recorded in 0 1 2 3 1899 on Canisp by C.E.Salmon, in 1 tetrad. On a north-facing 1908 on the Allt Poll an Droighinn 2 tetrads. Traligill valley and near Torridonian crag south of Creagan and ‘Chalda Burn’ by E.S.Marshall Creag nan Uamh (V.Jones). Beag, 1996. Only once found and W.A. Shoolbred, in 1956 at Recorded in 1890 at Inchnadamph elsewhere in West Sutherland, in Stoer by R.A.Graham, and by E.S. Marshall and in 1974 at 1966 at Durness by A.G.Kenneth. between 1966 and 1985 on Strathan by T.Edmondson. Quinag, ‘Conival/ Breabag’ and Canisp by A.G.Kenneth. Hieracium caledonicum F. Hanb. Hieracium camptopetalum (F.Hanb.) Sell and C.West Hieracium rivale F.Hanb. 3 Recorded in 1890 on the Traligill and Allt a’Chalda Mor by 3 F.J.Hanbury and E.S.Marshall, and 2 in 1908 on the Allt Poll an 2 Droighinn by the latter. 1

1 Hieracium pollinarioides Pugsley 0 1 2 3

Recorded in 1890 at Lochinver by 0 1 2 3 9 tetrads. On crags of a variety of E.S. Marshall, in 1944 at rock types, including gneiss, Inverkirkaig and Lochinver by 5 tetrads. On a wet gneiss crag Torridonian and the Fucoid Beds, A.J.Willmott, in 1951 at Stoer by east of Loch a'Choire Dheirg (Glas and also on the rocky shore of J.E.Raven, and in 1956 at Stoer Bheinn), on Creag na h-Iolaire Loch Veyatie. Recorded in 1887 and Clashnessie by R.A.Graham. (Beinn nan Cnaimhseag), on and 1908 at Inchnadamph by Torridonian crags below Beinn E.S.Marshall and W.A.Shoolbred, Gharbh and south of Lochan Fada, in 1890 at Lochinver and on Hieracium pictorum E.F.Linton and on limestone at Creag Canisp by E.S.Marshall, in 1951 at a’Choimleum and in the Allt nan Inchnadamph by C.West and in Uamh valley (both V.Jones). 1974 ‘between Conival and Recorded in 1908 at Allt nan Breabag’ [Bealach Traligill?] by 3 Uamh, Inchnadamph and Kylesku A.G. Kenneth. This species is by E.S. Marshall and in 1951 at currently under revision. 2 Inchnadamph by C.West. An endemic species, with few localities in northern Scotland. 1

0 1 2 3

143 Flora of Assynt

Hieracium argenteum Fries. Hieracium eucallum Sell and Hieracium sarcophylloides Dahlst. C.West

3 3 3

2 2 2

1 1 1

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 4 tetrads. In a quarry beside the 1 tetrad. On crags beside Loch an Allt na Doire Cuilinn, on gneiss 2 tetrads. On crags beside Loch Aigeil, 1998 (V.Jones). Not above the Allt nan Damph (Loch an Aigeil, 1997, and on Creag previously recorded. Veyatie) and on Cnoc Phollain a’Choimhleum, 1998 (both V. Beithe, and on quartzite to the east Jones). Not previously recorded. of Cuil Dhubh. Apparently Section Cerinthoidea. catholic in its choice of substrate. A group of hawkweeds that are Recorded in 1894 at Knockan by Hieracium saxorum (F.Hanb.) Sell very well represented in Assynt G.C.Druce, in 1897 at Inchna- and C.West (seven of the ten native species), damph by E.S. Marshall and in especially on the limestone. 1962 on Quinag by A.G. Kenneth. Recorded in 1951 from the upper part of the Traligill valley by J.E.Raven. Hieracium iricum Fries Hieracium nitidum Backh.

[Hieracium jovimontis (Zahn) Roffey 3 3 This species was mapped in error for H. nitidum (q.v.) in the Critical 2 2 Supplement.] 1 1 Hieracium dicella Sell and C. West 0 1 2 3

0 1 2 3 14 tetrads. A handsome plant, 4 tetrads. On gneiss crags at widely distributed both on and off Ruigh Chnoc, near Loch Meall 3 the limestone. Recorded in 1890 a’Chuna Beag and Loch an Aigeil, by E.S.Marshall at ‘Inchnadamph, and on granite on the north side of 2 ascending to 1200 ft.’ and ‘very Cnoc na Sròine. Recorded in 1908 fine by the river side, above at Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall, Lochinver’, and on a number of and in 1964 at Culkein Drumbeg 1 occasions since. by A.G.Kenneth. Mapped in the Critical Supplement for NC03, 13, 21, 22 and 23 under the title ‘H. 0 1 2 3 Hieracium anglicum Fries. jovimontis’. 2 tetrads. On the Fucoid Beds at 13 tetrads. Frequent on the Liath Bhad, 1990, and on Creag limestone and occasional a’Choimhleum, 1998. Not elsewhere. previously recorded.

144 Flowering plants and ferns

Recorded in 1890 at Lochinver and Hieracium shoolbredii E.Marshall in 1908 around Inchnadamph by 3 E.S.Marshall, in 1971 near Ledmore by A.G.Kenneth, and in 1974 at Strathan by T.Edmondson. 3 2 This species is currently under revision. 2 1

Hieracium hebridense Pugsley 1

0 1 2 3

Recorded in 1908 at Knockan and 0 1 2 3 Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall, and 3 in 1966 on Quinag by 9 tetrads. Mainly on the A.G.Kenneth. This species is 2 limestone, but also on the gneiss at currently under revision. Coire Dubh (north of Suilven) and in a wooded gorge south of Tubeg. 1 Recorded in 1899 on Beinn an Hieracium langwellense F. Hanb. Fhuarain by C.E.Salmon and on a number of occasions since, most 0 1 2 3 recently in 1974 at Achmelvich by T.Edmondson. 3 3 tetrads. In the Traligill valley, and on the north side of Glas Bheinn (V.Jones). Recorded in Section Subalpina. 2 1899 on Glas Bheinn by C.E.Salmon, in 1908 at Loch 1 Mhaolach-Coire by E.S.Marshall Hieracium dasythrix (E.F.Linton) and in 1958 in the Traligill valley Pugsley by C.West.

0 1 2 3

2 tetrads. On limestone in the Hieracium flocculosum Backh. 3 Traligill valley and beside burns on Torridonian crags at two places 2 south of Lochan Fada. Recorded in 1908 on the Allt a’Chalda Mor 3 and Beinn Gharbh by 1 E.S.Marshall. 2

0 1 2 3 Hieracium ampliatum (W.R. 1 Linton) Ley 1 tetrad. Traligill valley, 1997 V.Jones. Mapped for NC21 in the 0 1 2 3 Critical Supplement.

3 2 tetrads. In the Traligill valley, on an outcrop on Glac Mhór, and Hieracium hyparcticoides Pugsley on roadside rocks at Sròn 2 Chrùbaidh (V.Jones). Recorded in Recorded in 1890 and 1908 around 1908 in the Traligill valley by Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall and 1 E.S.Marshall. This species is W.A.Shoolbred, and also off the currently under revision. limestone on the Allt Poll an Droighinn and on Beinn Gharbh; also in 1957 at Inchnadamph by 0 1 2 3 C.West. In the British Isles this 1 tetrad. On limestone in the species is confined to West Traligill valley, 1997 (V.Jones). Sutherland, apart from one locality in East Ross.

145 Flora of Assynt

Hieracium glandulidens Sell and Hieracium holosericeum Backh. Antennaria dioica (L.) Gaertn. C.West Spòg Cait Mountain Everlasting

3 3 3 2 2 2 1 1 1 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 3 tetrads. A lovely plant, growing 0 1 2 3 1 tetrad. Glas Bheinn, 1997 in stony ground on the summit (V.Jones). Described new to ridges of Beinn an Fhuarain and 128 tetrads. Widespread in dry science from material collected in Suilven, and also on the south side situations. Heaths, rocks and short 1908 at Inchnadamph by of Beinn na Cnaimhseag. grassland, both coastal and inland. E.S.Marshall; also found in 1964 Recorded in 1900 at Inchnadamph First recorded in 1767, as on Quinag by A.G. Kenneth. by T.J.Foggitt, in 1960 on Glas ‘Gnaphalium dioicum’, near Bheinn and in 1986 on Canisp by Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. A.G.Kenneth. Hieracium lingulatum Backh. ex. Hook. & Arn. Gnaphalium sylvaticum L. Hieracium kennethii Sell and Cnàmh-lus Mòintich Recorded in 1908 at Inchnadamph, Tennant Heath Cudweed on Beinn Gharbh and Canisp by E.S.Marshall, in 1957 at Collected in 1987 by A.G.Kenneth Inchnadamph by R.C.Pankhurst, at c. 450-550m. on Cnoc na and in 1984 on ‘the approach to Creige. 3 Beinn Uidhe’ by A.G.Kenneth. 2 Hieracium marginatum Sell and Section Alpina. C.West Since some of these species are not 1 in Kent (1992), they are arranged Recorded in 1986 in the vicinity of alphabetically. Canisp by A.G.Kenneth. 0 1 2 3

1 tetrad. Rather surprisingly, just Hieracium alpinum L. Hieracium perscitum Sell and the one record, from heath C.West grassland beside the Clachtoll peat

track. First recorded in 1767 near Recorded in 1908 on Canisp by Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 3 W.A.Shoolbred. Recorded during the 1950s survey

for the first Atlas from NC02, 03,

12, 13 and 21, since when it has 2 Hieracium subglobosum Pugsley apparently declined.

Recorded in 1890 on Canisp by 1 E.S. Marshall, and in 1966 on Gnaphalium supinum L. Quinag by A.G. Kenneth. Cnàmh-lus Beag Formerly referred to as the dark- 0 1 2 3 Dwarf Cudweed styled form of ‘H. globosiflorum’.

1 tetrad. Bealach na h-Uidhe, at 8 tetrads. Rare on hilltops in bare, c.600m., 1999. Not previously stony or gravelly places: Beinn an recorded. Fhurain, Beinn Uidhe, Breabag,

Glas Bheinn, Quinag and Suilven.

146 Flowering plants and ferns

rocky, places. In dry heath, Tanacetum parthenium (L.) grassland, light woodland and also Sch.Bip. 3 on hilltops, where it survives and (Chrysanthemum parthenium (L.) flowers on stony ground, only Bernh.) growing to a few cm. in height. Meadh Duach 2 There are some limestone areas in Feverfew which we have not found it. First 1 recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 3 0 1 2 3 Aster tripolium L. 2 First recorded in 1886 on ‘Coinne Neòinean Sàilein mheall, Assynt’ by A.Gray; also in Sea Aster 1899 by C.E.Salmon at 2,300ft. on 1 Canisp, where we have not seen it.

3 0 1 2 3 Gnaphalium uliginosum L. Cnàmh-lus Lèana 7 tetrads. Introduced in the past, 2 probably for medicinal purposes, Marsh Cudweed and maintaining itself near ruined 1 houses, on roadsides and on the sea wall in Lochinver. First recorded in 1943 at Lochinver by 3 0 1 2 3 A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell, with the comment ‘garden outcast 2 1 tetrad. Only found at Loch Roe on the shore above high water and, although saltmarsh is not a mark, but subject to much spray’. common habitat in Assynt, there Recorded in 1981 from NC13. 1 seems no obvious reason for it not to be elsewhere. First recorded during the 1950s survey for the Tanacetum vulgare L. 0 1 2 3 first Atlas from NC02; possibly the (Chrysanthemum vulgare (L.) 6 tetrads. Typically a plant of current locality. Bernh.) roadsides, along the gravelly strip Lus na Frainge where the road meets the grass. Tansy Seen once as a garden weed. First Bellis perennis L. recorded during the 1950s survey Neòinean for the first Atlas from NC02. Daisy 3

Solidago virgaurea L. 2 Slat Oir 3 Goldenrod 1 2

3 1 0 1 2 3

3 tetrads. Rare. Surviving in or 2 0 1 2 3 near abandoned gardens or the disused parts of present ones. 125 tetrads. Abundant in Found in Culkein Stoer, 1 grassland, beside tracks and as a Inverkirkaig and Unapool. First weed of cultivation and disturbed recorded in 1886 at ‘Loch Inver’ ground. First recorded in 1767 by A.Gray. There are post-1950 0 1 2 3 from near Inchnadamph by records from NC02 and 13. 132 tetrads. Widespread and J.Robertson. common in well-drained, often

147 Flora of Assynt

Artemisia vulgaris L. 1997. It was seen once in Liath-lus Clachtoll in 1980, but has not been Mugwort 3 seen since. It was noted in a garden at Achmelvich from 1994 to 1996, but not since. First 2 recorded during the 1950s survey 3 for the first Atlas, from NC02, 03, 1 12 and 13.

2 0 1 2 3 Leucanthemum vulgare Lam. 1 (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum First recorded during the 1950s L.) survey for the first Atlas. Nèoinean Mòr 0 1 2 3 Ox-eye Daisy

5 tetrads. In gardens at Achillea millefolium L. Achmelvich, on a wall at Eàrr-thalmainn Clashmore, in a sandy gully near Yarrow 3 the sea at Clachtoll, in sandy grassland at Clashnessie and in a roadside quarry west of Skiag 2 bridge First recorded during the 3 1950s survey for the first Atlas 1 from NC13 and 21, in addition to the current hectads. 2 0 1 2 3 1 Artemisia absinthium L. 16 tetrads. Only occasional. The Burmaid records are mostly from roadside Wormwood 0 1 2 3 verges and waste ground. It is probably under-recorded in the 108 tetrads. Widespread and very intensively grazed areas.of common on roadsides and in short grassland near the coast First 3 grassland. First recorded during recorded during the 1950s survey the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. for the first Atlas.

2 Chrysanthemum segetum L. Matricaria recutita L. 1 Bile Bhuidhe Buidheag an Arbhair Chùbhraidh Corn Marigold Scented Mayweed

0 1 2 3

1 tetrad. Found only once, beside 3 3 an old, uninhabited house at Culkein Drumbeg. First recorded in 1944 by A.J.Wilmott in a 2 2 ‘neglected old garden…. Achmelvich’. 1 1

Achillea ptarmica L. 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 Craidh-lus Sneezewort 4 tetrads. A good example of how 2 tetrads. Rare casual, lack of present-day arable has presumably brought in with 105 tetrads. Widespread and affected a plant’s distribution. The machinery. First recorded (new to common in marshes, damp species re-appeared, for the first the vice-county) in 1994 at grassland and beside watercourses. time in 20 years, in a patch of Lochinver, and in the following former cultivation at Stoer when it year from Achmelvich. was newly planted with potatoes in

148 Flowering plants and ferns

Matricaria discoidea DC. Senecio vulgaris L. Lus Anainn Grunnasg Pineappleweed 3 Groundsel

2

3 3 1

2 2

0 1 2 3 1 1 There are no earlier records, presumably because of the 0 1 2 3 relatively recent change in status. 0 1 2 3

44 tetrads. Frequent along the 24 tetrads. Surprisingly gravelly strip between the road and Senecio jacobaea L. uncommon. Noted occasionally as the grass verge. First recorded Buaghallan a garden weed and on disturbed during the 1950s survey for the Common Ragwort areas of roadside verges. First first Atlas. recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas.

Tripleurospermum maritimum (L.) 3 W.D.J.Koch Senecio sylvaticus L. Buidheag na Mara Grunnasg Monaidh Sea Mayweed 2 Heath Groundsel

1 Not seen during the present survey. First recorded from NC02 during 3 the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 0 1 2 3

2 62 tetrads. Common in rough Senecio viscosus L. grassland, scrub and along the Grunnasg Leantalach 1 sides of roads and tracks. First Sticky Groundsel recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 0 1 2 3 3 17 tetrads. Frequent on sea cliffs, Senecio aquaticus Hill rocky shores and shingle beaches. Caoibhreachan First recorded in 1886, as Marsh Ragwort 2 ‘Matricaria inodora b. salina’, at Clachtoll by A.Gray. 1

3 Tripleurospermum inodorum (L.) 0 1 2 3 Sch.Bip. (T. maritimum ssp. inodorum (L.) 2 3 tetrads. Rare garden weed seen Hyl. ex Vaar.) at Achmelvich, Kerrachar and Buidheag an Arbhair 1 Nedd. First recorded in 1995 from Scentless Mayweed the last of these localities.

10 tetrads. Very occasional in 0 1 2 3 waste places and coastal grassland. Tussilago farfara L. First recorded in 1990 from Stoer 56 tetrads. Common in lowland Cluas Liath village. wet places: ditches, marshes, river Colt’s-foot sides and wet grassland. First recorded during the 1950s survey 30 tetrads. Predominantly a plant for the first Atlas. of river gravels, but also

149 Flora of Assynt

1 tetrad. Recorded in 1998 in Loch Druim Suardalain during the 3 3 Scottish Loch Survey (det. C.D. Preston).

2 2 Potamogeton polygonifolius Pourr. 1 1 Lìobhag Bogaich Bog Pondweed

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 occasionally on scree and coastal turf amongst rocks. First 3 roadsides. First recorded during recorded during the 1950s survey the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. for the first Atlas. 2

Eupatorium cannabinum L. POTAMOGETONACEAE 1 Cainb-uisge Hemp-agrimony Potamogeton natans L. 0 1 2 3 Not seen during the present survey. Duileasg na h-Aibhne Recorded in 1767 near Broad-leaved Pondweed 137 tetrads. Widespread and Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. common in ditches, bogs and wet mud, as well as in open water in bog pools, lochs and river JUNCAGINACEAE 3 backwaters. First recorded in 1887 in Lochan Feòir by E.S.Marshall.

Triglochin palustre L. 2 Barr a’Mhilltich Lèana [Potamogeton lucens L. Marsh Arrowgrass 1 Lìobhag Loinnreach Shining Pondweed

0 1 2 3 A record for Assynt in 1886 is 3 ascribed in Anthony to A.Gray, but 89 tetrads. Widespread in lochs Gray and Hinxman (1888) has no and slow-moving stretches of specific locality. Preston and Croft 2 rivers. First recorded in 1886 at (1997) show no recent record north Elphin by A.Gray. of Skye.] 1

Potamogeton x sparganiifolius Potamogeton gramineus L. 0 1 2 3 Laest. ex Fr. Lìobhag Fheurach P. natans x P. gramineus Various-leaved Pondweed 130 tetrads. Widespread and Lìobhag Stiallach abundant in marshes, flushes, on Ribbon-leaved Pondweed loch shores and sometimes at the back of salt marshes, where it may 3 grow alongside T. maritimum. First recorded in 1887 at 3 Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall. 2

2 1 Triglochin maritimum L. Barr a’Mhilltich Mara 1 Sea Arrowgrass 0 1 2 3

19 tetrads. In saltmarshes and wet 24 tetrads. Occasional in the 0 1 2 3 shallow water of lochs. First

150 Flowering plants and ferns recorded in 1886 in Loch Awe by locally only from Loch Awe, A.Gray. where it was discovered in 1988 by 3 E.Charter during the Scottish Loch Survey. Potamogeton x nitens Weber P. gramineus x P. perfoliatus 2 Lìobhag Shoilleir Potamogeton berchtoldii Fieber Bright-leaved Pondweed 1 Lìobhag Bheag Small Pondweed

0 1 2 3 3 washed-up material. First 3 recorded in 1890 in the ‘Gillaroo 2 Loch’ by E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. 2 1 1 Potamogeton perfoliatus L. 0 1 2 3 Dreimire Uisge Perfoliate Pondweed 0 1 2 3 6 tetrads. Recorded from only a few lochs and not always ones in 9 tetrads. Occasional in shallow which the parents have been found. water in lochs. First recorded in First recorded in 1886 at 3 1943 in Loch an Aigeil by Alltana’bradhan by A.Gray and A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. subsequently, in 1943, at Loch an Aigeil by A.J.Wilmott and 2 M.S.Campbell. Potamogeton filiformis Pers. 1 Lìobhag Chaol Slender-leaved Pondweed Potamogeton alpinus Balb. Lìobhag Dhearg 0 1 2 3 Red Pondweed 28 tetrads. Occasional in lochs 3 and rarely in rivers. As with the preceding species, it was usually 2 3 identified from washed-up material since it grows beyond wading depth. First recorded in 1886 from 1 2 Loch Borralan by A.Gray.

1 0 1 2 3 Potamogeton rutilus Wolfg. Lìobhag Ruadh 2 tetrads. Occurs in Loch an 0 1 2 3 Shetland Pondweed Aigeil, a rich loch at Clachtoll, and in the burn which links it to the 20 tetrads. Occasional in lochs. sea. This burn is subject to First recorded in 1943 in Loch an occasional cleaning out, which Aigeil by A.J.Wilmott and 3 certainly affects the flora M.S.Campbell. temporarily, if not in the longer term. First recorded in 1886 in 2 Loch Urigill by A.Gray, and in Potamogeton praelongus Wulfen Loch an Aigeil in 1943 by Lìobhag Fhada 1 A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. Long-stalked Pondweed

11 tetrads. Occasional in the 0 1 2 3 larger, base-rich, lochs. As it grows at depths inaccessible from 1 tetrad. Red Data Book species. the shore, most records were from A very rare pondweed known

151 Flora of Assynt

[Potamogeton pectinatus L. the six beaches where washed-up JUNCACEAE Lìobhag Fhineil material had been found, in the Fennel Pondweed hope that this would provide some clue as to the location of Zostera Juncus squarrosus L. Not seen during the present survey. beds. While the two northern Brù-chorcan Recorded in 1886 in Loch Urigill beaches, at Clashnessie and Heath Rush by A.Gray, but not included in Culkein Stoer, could conceivably Anthony.] have received the plant on currents from Port Dhrombaig or from Oldany (which was the site of the 3 RUPPIACEAE first record), it seems unlikely that this could be the case at Achmelvich, Balchladich, 2 Ruppia maritima L. Clachtoll and Stoer Bay. There Snàth-lus Mara must be other Zostera beds out 1 Beaked Tasselweed there, still to be discovered by someone who makes a systematic search in a boat at Low Spring 0 1 2 3 Tides. First recorded from 3 Oldany; the greatest detail is to be 142 tetrads. Widespread and found in J.Anthony’s card index, common on wet and dry heaths. It which has an entry ‘sea is tolerant of trampling and so is 2 bed…gravelly…Oldany often particularly noticeable on or Is….7/1958…29/03’. Anthony has beside tracks. First recorded 1 ‘Oldany, 1955, B.F[lannigan].’ during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas.

LEMNACEAE 0 1 2 3 Juncus tenuis Willd. 2 tetrads. Records were made Luachair Chaol during the Scottish Loch Survey in Lemna minor L. Slender Rush 1988, from Loch Fasg an t-Seana Mac gun Athair Chlaidh and the adjoining Lochan Common Duckweed Sàile, and in 2001 from the brackish loch at Duart. 3

3 2 ZOSTERACEAE 2 1 Zostera marina L. Bilearach 1 Eelgrass 0 1 2 3

0 1 2 3 2 tetrads. Introduced. Growing on the track running from the road 1 tetrad. The first and only record to the sea at Oldany and on a small 3 was made in 1993 at Elphin. The disused roadside quarry, which plants were growing in a recently acts as a layby, about 1km. east of 2 re-excavated ditch by Assynt Glenleraig. First recorded in 1943 Primary School, but had gone the as ‘J.macer’, in a ‘roadside runnel next year. north of Clashnessie’ by 1 A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. Anthony cites ‘Eddrachillis (Kylesku)’, but Kylesku is not in 0 1 2 3 Eddrachillis parish. Kylestrome, on the other hand, is, and as the 7 tetrads. A bed of the growing rush is still to be found there, this plant was located in Port may just be a confusion of names. Dhrombaig, NC13G, by T.Lockie in 2001. Prior to that we mapped

152 Flowering plants and ferns

Juncus gerardii Loisel. 76 tetrads. Frequent along Luachair Rèisg Ghoirt roadsides, tracksides and on Saltmarsh Rush disturbed ground, where conditions 3 are suitably damp. First recorded in 1897 at Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall. 2 3 1 Juncus ambiguus Guss. 2 Buabh-luachair Bheag Frog Rush 0 1 2 3 1 not been recorded. First recorded in 1887 at Inchnadamph by 0 1 2 3 3 E.S.Marshall.

20 tetrads. Frequent in saltmarshes and patches of damp 2 Juncus x surrejanus Druce ex coastal turf. First recorded in 1886 Stace & Lambinon at Inverkirkaig by A.Gray. 1 J. articulatus x J. acutiflorus

Juncus trifidus L. 0 1 2 3 Luachair Thrì-bhileach 3 Three-leaved Rush 2 tetrads. Prefers brackish conditions, where a marsh meets a saltmarsh, or a burn runs through a 2 saltmarsh to the sea. Only found at 3 Baddidarach and Culkein 1 Drumbeg, but almost certainly under-recorded. First recorded in 2 1988 in ‘damp, sandy ground at 0 1 2 3 head of beach, Clachtoll’ by 1 E.Norman. 4 tetrads. Rare. Recorded from a marsh at Achadhantuir, a verge by Loch an Ordain, the edge of Loch 0 1 2 3 Juncus alpinoarticulatus Chaix Assynt and flushed grassland at Luachair Ailpeach Cnoc an Leathaid Bhuidhe. First 20 tetrads. Occasional, but may Alpine Rush recorded in 1992 from the last of be common where it does occur, in these sites. bare places and rock crevices on Not seen during the present survey. the higher hills. First recorded in Found in 1887 by E.S.Marshall 1899 on ‘Canisp, north side’ by ‘near Inchnadamph..growing with Juncus acutiflorus Ehrh. ex Hoffm. C.E.Salmon. ‘J. lamprocarpus’ [J. articulatus] Luachair a’Bhlàth Ghèir at about 400ft.’ There is a voucher Sharp-flowered Rush specimen at Edinburgh, with Juncus bufonius L. another labelled as ‘Loch Buabh-luachair Assynt…1908’. There have been Toad Rush no other records. 3

2 Juncus articulatus L. 3 Lachan nan Damh Jointed Rush 1

2 145 tetrads. Extremely common in wet places, particularly around 0 1 2 3 1 loch margins and often actually in the water. There can be few lochs 43 tetrads. Scattered in suitably in Assynt from which this rush has wet habitats: ditches, marshes, loch 0 1 2 3 and river margins. First recorded

153 Flora of Assynt during the 1950s survey for the Inchnadamph’. This is rather Luzula pilosa (L.) Willd. first Atlas. lower than we have seen it. Learman Fionnach Hairy Woodrush

Juncus bulbosus L. Juncus effusus L. Luachair Bhalgach Luachair Bhog Bulbous Rush Soft Rush 3

2

3 3 1

2 2

0 1 2 3 1 1 19 tetrads. Occasional in open woodland. First recorded during 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 the 1950s survey for the first Atlas.

157 tetrads. Recorded in one of 150 tetrads. Widespread and its forms from almost every tetrad. abundant throughout the parish, in Luzula sylvatica (Huds.) Gaudin The terrestrial form is ubiquitous bogs, marshes, wet grassland, Luachair Coille in marshes, bogs, on loch shores woodland and on river margins. Great Woodrush and disturbed ground. In shallow, Var. spiralis is not uncommon on still water it looks similar, but in unmetalled tracks and occasionally deeper or in running water makes elsewhere. First recorded in 1944 long, streaming plants which are on a ‘roadside at Inver 3 usually flowerless. First recorded (Lochinver)’ by A.J.Wilmott and in 1887 by E.S.Marshall as form M.S.Campbell, with the comment ‘fluitans’ in a ‘slow stream below ‘uncommon (rare?)’. 2 Quinag’ and as form ‘uliginosus’ in Lochan Feòir. 1 Juncus conglomeratus L. Bròdh Bràighe Juncus triglumis L. Compact Rush 0 1 2 3 Luachair Thrì-lusan Three-flowered Rush 138 tetrads. Common and widespread in the shelter of 3 woodland and rocky burn banks and a frequent component of the 3 tall herb vegetation on north-facing 2 crags in the hills. More surprising is its occurrence on sea cliffs, open 2 1 moorland and occasionally on summit ridges, where the exposure 1 appears to be great. First recorded 0 1 2 3 in 1894 at ‘Knockan Crags’ by G.C.Druce. 0 1 2 3 139 tetrads. Widespread, but not as abundant as the preceding 9 tetrads. In basic flushes in the species. In a similar range of Luzula campestris (L.) DC. hills. Found in Bealach Traligill, habitats, but a little more prevalent Learman Raoin on the north side of Canisp, Cnoc on drier ground. First recorded in Field Woodrush Eilid Mhathaid, Cnoc na Creige 1943 as ‘common everywhere’ by Glas Bheinn and Sàil Gharbh. A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell, 51 tetrads. In short grassland, First recorded in 1886 on ‘Coinne with the comment ‘collected at generally at low altitudes. First mheal Assynt’ by A.Gray. Inver (Lochinver) with what recorded in 1907 ‘on Ben More E.S.Marshall in 1889 commented appeared to be hybrids with the 108’ by G.C.Druce (who had ‘descends to 700ft. near next species [J.effusus] 1944’.

154 Flowering plants and ferns

2 tetrads. A Red Data Book species found on bare, unstable hill 3 tops. A previously unknown 3 population of 20+ plants in fine ‘soily’ scree, perhaps derived from 2 quartzite, was discovered by 2 G.P.Rothero in 1999, at c. 800m. 1 to the east of the summit of 1 Canisp. A colony at 940m., be- striding the north ridge of Conival, 0 1 2 3 was found by him in 1998. This 0 1 2 3 ridge, along which runs the a keen perception of vice-county v.c.107/108 boundary , is the usual pools. First recorded in 1767, as boundaries). route up Ben More Assynt from ‘E. polystachion’, near Inchnadamph. The Conival site Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. may well be where the species was Luzula multiflora (Ehrh.) Lej. first found in 1833 by A.Graham, Learman Monaidh ‘on the ridge leading to the top of Eriophorum latifolium Hoppe Heath Woodrush Ben More Assynt from Canach an t-Slèibh Inchnadamf’, and subsequently by Broad-leaved Cottongrass C.E.Salmon in 1899, with the comment ‘still plentiful in one 3 compact patch on the way to the summit where it was recorded 3 many years ago.’ 2

2

1 Luzula spicata (L.) DC. Learman Ailpeach 1 Spiked Woodrush 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 152 tetrads. Ubiquitous in dry situations in heath, acid grassland 3 61 tetrads. In small populations and woodland, from the coast to scattered across the gneiss in base- high in the hills. We did not make rich flushes; also occasionally on a consistent attempt to identify it to 2 the limestone. First recorded in subspecies, but ssp. congesta was 1886 at Achmore by A.Gray. noted five times and ssp. multiflora 1 three. First recorded in 1894 as ‘L. congesta….near Elphin and Eriophorum vaginatum L.

Ledbeg’ by G.C.Druce. 0 1 2 3 Sìoda Monaidh Hare’s-tail Cottongrass 18 tetrads. On open stony ground Luzula arcuata Sw. on the hills, at lower altitudes than Learman Crom the preceding. First recorded in Curved Woodrush 1907 on ‘Ben More, Assynt’ by 3 G.C.Druce (see above under L. campestris). 2

3 CYPERACEAE 1

2

Eriophorum angustifolium Honck. 0 1 2 3 1 Canach Common Cottongrass 143 tetrads. Although equally widespread, it is nothing like as 0 1 2 3 158 tetrads. Widespread and abundant as E. angustifolium. It abundant in wet bogs and shallow grows in damp, peaty places, often in small tussocks, and its early

155 Flora of Assynt flowers are a welcome first sign of Eleocharis uniglumis (Link) life on the hill. First recorded in Schult. 1767 near Inchnadamph by Bioran Caol 3 J.Robertson. Slender Spike-rush

2 Trichophorum cespitosum (L.) Hartm. 3 1 (Scirpus cespitosus L.) Cìob 2 Deergrass 0 1 2 3

1 Absent from the higher hills. First recorded in 1907 at Inchnadamph 3 by G.C.Druce. 0 1 2 3

2 10 tetrads. Uncommon, in [Eleocharis acicularis (L.) Roem. saltmarshes and freshwater & Schult. 1 marshes near the sea. First Bioran Dealgach recorded during the 1950s survey Needle Spike-rush for the first Atlas. 0 1 2 3 Recorded, presumably in error, in 1886 at Loch Awe by A.Gray.] 155 tetrads. Ubiquitous in bogs, Eleocharis multicaulis (Sm.) Desv. wet and dry heaths and acid grass- Bioran Badanach lands. Subspecies cespitosum, Many-stalked Spike-rush Schoenoplectus lacustris (L.) Palla although recorded elsewhere in (Scirpus lacustris L.) West Sutherland, has not yet been Luachair Ghòbhlach seen in Assynt, although it seems Common Club-rush likely that it will be found, because 3 of the sheer quantity of suitable habitat. First recorded in 1767 2 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 3

1 Eleocharis palustris (L.) Roem. & 2 Schult. Bioran Coitcheann 0 1 2 3 1 Common Spike-rush 82 tetrads. Although found in stony flushes, it is most common 0 1 2 3 in the shallow water on the edge of 3 lochs. Rare in limestone lochs and 53 tetrads. With two exceptions, those at very high levels. First all the records are from lochs; recorded in 1886 at Tumore by rivers in Assynt are mostly too fast 2 A.Gray. and shallow to suit this species. First recorded in 1886 in Lochan Feòir by A.Gray. 1 Eleocharis quinqueflora (Hartmann) O.Schwartz Bioran nan Lusan Gann Isolepis setacea (L.) R.Br. 0 1 2 3 Few-flowered Spike-rush (Scirpus setaceus L.) 56 tetrads. Locally frequent as Curcais Chalgach emergent vegetation along the 105 tetrads. Common and Bristle Club-rush margin of slow-moving rivers and widespread in open communities, in the more fertile lochs. Not in wet stony flushes or on wet peat. 33 tetrads. Occasional in damp usually seen in the acid hill lochs. open ground or amongst very short Recorded in 1767 near vegetation. In acid flushes, wet Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. grassland and along tracks.

156 Flowering plants and ferns

11 tetrads. Uncommon, in flowering time. First recorded in saltmarshes and wet stony places 1887 near Inchnadamph by 3 at the back of the shore. First E.S.Marshall. recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 2 Cladium mariscus (L.) Pohl Sàbh-sheisg 1 Schoenus nigricans L. Great Fen-sedge Sèimhean Dubh Black Bog-rush 0 1 2 3 3 First recorded in 1943 at Lochinver by A.J.Wilmott and 3 M.S.Campbell. 2

2 1 Eleogiton fluitans (L.) Link (Scirpus fluitans L.) 1 Curcais air Bhog 0 1 2 3 Floating Club-rush 0 1 2 3 11 tetrads. Sparsely distributed in, or adjacent to, a few of the more 110 tetrads. May be dominant in base-rich lochs, where it makes 3 an extensive mire or form a band good stands in sheltered bays. along the margins of a small First recorded during the 1950s watercourse, nearly always where survey for the first Atlas. 2 there is base-rich flushing. See Ferreira (1995) for a detailed 1 account of its ecology. Although Carex paniculata L. large stands of Schoenus are Seisg Bhadanach Mhòr generally species-poor, it is Greater Tussock-sedge 0 1 2 3 interesting that Dactylorhiza lapponica is associated with it in 61 tetrads. Common in lochs on Assynt and that Platanthera bifolia the gneiss and on mud which is is often found in its vicinity. First 3 only seasonally flooded. Flowers recorded in 1767 near freely, both terrestrially and as an Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. aquatic. It is an easily recognised 2 bright green, subtly different from the colour of any other filiform Rhynchospora alba (L.) Vahl 1 aquatic found in this area. First Gob-sheisg recorded in 1890 at Lochan Feòir White Beak-sedge by E.S.Marshall. 0 1 2 3

5 tetrads. A rare sedge, with a Blysmus rufus (Huds.) Link 3 strangely disjunct distribution. Seisg Rèisg Ghoirt There is a single tussock in a bog Saltmarsh Flat-sedge at Achadh Mór, and one 7 km. 2 away in a bog at Bad a’Bhainne. It is then 17 km. to six plants in miry 1 loops at Loch Mhaolach-coire, 3 where the burn runs in from the south, and another 6 km. to the 0 1 2 3 Ledbeg River, south-east of Feur 2 Loch, where there is a respectable 56 tetrads. Locally frequent in group of 20 plants! Three tussocks 1 very wet places, often fringing bog in a flush by the Allt nam Meur at pools; mainly on the gneiss. Cromalt, complete the picture and Usually in extensive patches, the leave the botanist wondering how 0 1 2 3 pale spikes conspicuous at it makes such leaps. First recorded

157 Flora of Assynt in 1983 at Loch Mhaolach-coire by the sea. First recorded in 1886 at A.S.MacLennan. Achmelvich Bay by A.Gray. 3

Carex otrubae Podp. Carex disticha Huds. Seisg Gharbh Uaine Seisg Ruadh 2 False Fox-sedge Brown Sedge 1

3 3 0 1 2 3

on roadside verges and in other 2 2 lowland, grassy places. Also, although less often, in marshes. 1 1 First recorded in 1907 at Inchnadamph by G.C.Druce.

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 Carex echinata Murray 1 tetrad. Not previously recorded 1 tetrad. Very rare, growing in Seisg Reultach for Assynt, its last minute small quantity in a marsh Star Sedge discovery on Soyea Island was a alongside the footpath from complete fluke. While scrambling Glencanisp Lodge to Suilven. over rocks to return to the boat, we First recorded in 1955 at spotted the plants on the edge of a Achmelvich by J.Anthony; this 3 brackish pool just above high- record is not in his Flora. water mark. This is an identical situation to those occupied by 2 plants growing at Duartbeg in Carex remota L. Eddrachillis further up the coast to Seisg Sgarta 1 the north, and on Eilean Mór, just Remote Sedge to the south in West Ross. 0 1 2 3

Carex arenaria L. 3 156 tetrads. Widespread and Seisg Ghainmhich abundant in ground that is Sand Sedge permanently wet: mires, bogs and 2 wet heath. First recorded in 1894 at ‘Knockan Crags’ by G.C.Druce. 1 3 Carex dioica L. 0 1 2 3 Seisg Aon-cheannach 2 Dioecious Sedge 2 tetrads. Growing beneath hazel 1 on the bank of the River Kirkaig, about 1km. from the mouth, and in wet woodland on both sides of the 3 0 1 2 3 river at Glenleraig. First recorded,

in Anthony, as ‘Lochinver, Stoer, 2 5 tetrads. Frequent at Clachtoll, 1944, A.J.W.’. Clashnessie and Stoer in its traditional habitat of dunes and 1 sandy coastal grassland. Along the Carex ovalis Gooden. road running north from Skiag Seisg Ughach Bridge there is a colony of this Oval Sedge 0 1 2 3 sedge on the verge, extending for 108 tetrads. Widespread and 5m. Presumably brought in with 56 tetrads. Found very commonly sand, it is surviving there alongside common. In open situations with a very well-salted road, 6km. from silty soil, or in stony flushes,

158 Flowering plants and ferns where the conditions are not too extensive mires; under these Carex sylvatica Huds. acid. First recorded in 1894 at conditions the plants do not flower Seisg Choille ‘Knockan Crags’ by G.C.Druce. as freely as do those in water, but Wood-sedge their fine, whippy leaves are unmistakable. First recorded in Carex curta Gooden. 1886 in Lochan Feòir by A.Gray. Seisg Bhàn 3 White Sedge Carex rostrata Stokes Seisg Shearragach 2 Bottle Sedge 3 1

2 3 0 1 2 3

1 4 tetrads. Occurs in very small 2 quantity in each of its four sites: under hazels at Nedd, beside the 0 1 2 3 1 Allt an Tiaghaich, on the edge of the burn running out of Loch Bad 26 tetrads. A puzzling a’Chigean and in deciduous distribution for a reputedly acid- 0 1 2 3 woodland south-east of Loch loving species, as the concen- Druim Suardalain. First recorded tration of sites in the south-east 114 tetrads. Widespread and in 1992 at the last-named site. would suggest at least some abundant as an emergent in lochs, affinity with limestone. Closer rivers and bog pools. Grows also examination of these shows that in wet heath, bogs, marshes and Carex capillaris L. four are on peat over limestone, six ditches. Flowers freely in open Seisg Ghrinn on alluvium and others just on water but less so in terrestrial Hair Sedge ‘peat’. Topography may provide a situations. First recorded, as reason, but there seems to be a ‘C.ampullacea’, in 1886 in Lochan factor, which we are not Feòir by A.Gray. appreciating, responsible for its 3 absence from other areas of bog. All our records are lowland. First Carex vesicaria L. recorded in 1887 on the ‘W. side Seisg Bhalganach 2 of Coniveall (108), at over 2500ft.’ Bladder-sedge by E.S.Marshall. 1

Carex lasiocarpa Ehrh. 3 0 1 2 3 Seisg Choilleanta Slender Sedge 11 tetrads. Confined to limestone 2 areas where it grows in grassland, around outcrops and on ledges. 1 First recorded in 1886 by A.Gray, 3 with the comment ‘Loch Assynt (frequent)’. G.C.Druce’s 1907 0 1 2 3 record is more informative, 2 ‘Abundant on the limestone, 1 tetrad. Found only once during descending to 200ft. near Ardvrick 1 present survey, in a patch of Castle’. Also recorded in 1995 on reedswamp at the mouth of the Allt ‘dry slope, Clachtoll’ by na Braclaich, where it runs into the B.Flannigan, and in 1958 at ‘Stoer 0 1 2 3 western end of Cam Loch. First Bay’ by B.Flannigan and recorded in 1977 at Loch Urigill R.B.Knox. We have not seen it on 48 tetrads. Frequent as emergent by E.D.Allen et al. the coast, perhaps because of the vegetation in lochs and also in heavy grazing there. marginal reedswamp. This sedge can be the dominant species in

159 Flora of Assynt

Carex flacca Schreb. Baddidarach and Achmelvich in Seisg Liath-ghorm saltmarsh. First recorded in 1987 Glaucous Sedge 3 at the last-named site.

2 Carex extensa Gooden. 3 Seisg Anainn 1 Long-bracted Sedge

2

0 1 2 3 1 3 have been introduced during planting. 2 0 1 2 3

71 tetrads. In limestone and Carex binervis Sm. 1 coastal grasslands, but also Seisg Fhèith-ghuirm scattered over the gneiss, in areas Green-ribbed Sedge of mineral enrichment. First 0 1 2 3 recorded in 1894 at ‘Knockan Crags’ by G.C.Druce. He later 9 tetrads. Occasional in salt (1907) recorded a ‘slender form’ 3 marshes and on wet rocky shores. on Canisp. First recorded in 1956 in saltmarsh at the head of Loch Nedd by 2 A.O.Chater. Carex panicea L. Seisg a’Chruithneachd 1 Carnation Sedge Carex hostiana DC. Seisg Odhar 0 1 2 3 Tawny Sedge

3 150 tetrads. Widespread and abundant in wet and dry heath, rocky valleys, banks, gorges and 3 2 cliff ledges. Rarely found in open grassland. First recorded in 1887, 2 1 ‘on the heaths above Loch Assynt’, by E.S.Marshall. 1 0 1 2 3 Carex distans L. 157 tetrads. The most widespread Seisg Fhada-mach 0 1 2 3 and abundant sedge in Assynt, Distant Sedge although C. echinata runs it a close 115 tetrads. Widespread but second. Grows everywhere: wet thinly distributed. In wet heath, and dry heath, grasslands, mires, wet flushes and rough grassland, bogs, stony loch shores and, in a 3 favouring base-rich habitats. First dwarf form, high on the hills. First recorded in 1886, as ‘C. fulva’, recorded in 1894 on ‘Knockan from ‘Tumore – Loch Inver’ by Crags’ by G.C.Druce. 2 A.Gray.

1 Carex laevigata Sm. Carex x fulva Gooden. Seisg Mhìn C. hostiana x C. viridula Smooth-stalked Sedge 0 1 2 3 7 tetrads. Uncommon; in basic 1 tetrad. The first and only record 6 tetrads. Found at Port Alltan na flushes, usually near C. hostiana. was made in 1992, in the Bradhan and on Oldany Island on extensively wooded grounds of wet rocks, at Clachtoll in coastal Glencanisp Lodge, to which it may grassland within the spray zone, at

160 Flowering plants and ferns

3 3 3

2 2 2

1 1 1

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3

First recorded in 1996 near Calda on loch shores, burn edges and woodland conditions associated House, Inchnadamph. flushes, from sea level to high in with it further south in the British the hills. First recorded as ‘C. Isles, because of the high chrysites’ in 1890 ‘by Loch atmospheric moisture and rainfall Carex viridula Michx. Assynt’ by E.S.Marshall and of this area. It occurs in dry and Yellow-sedge F.J.Hanbury. wet heath, marshes, grassland, and roadsides. First recorded in 1886 ssp. brachyrrhyncha (Celak.) ssp. viridula on Loch Assynt by A.Gray. B.Schmid (C. serotina Mérat) (C. lepidocarpa Tausch) Seisg nam Measan Beaga Seisg Bhuidhe Fhad-chuiseagach Small-fruited Yellow-sedge Carex caryophyllea Latourr. Long-stalked Yellow-sedge Seisg an Earraich Spring-sedge

3 Not seen during the present survey. 3 First recorded in 1956 from NC21 and 22 by A.C.Crundwell; again 2 from NC22 by M.McC.Webster in 2 1961. 1 1 Carex pilulifera L. 0 1 2 3 Seisg Lùbach 0 1 2 3 Pill Sedge 18 tetrads. Almost entirely 35 tetrads. Common in base-rich coastal in distribution, in salt habitats: flushes, wet grassland, marshes and in wet and stony and on stony edges of lochs and places at the back of the shore. 3 burns. Var. scotica (E.W.Davies) Two localities are inland, one on B.Schmidt was described new to the stony margin of Loch Poll the British Isles from Inchnadamph Dhaidh and the other on the north 2 in 1952 (as ssp. scotica). First shore of the river, just downstream recorded in 1943, ‘south of of Loch na h-Airigh Fraoich. First 1 Lochinver towards Lady recorded in 1956 in saltmarsh at Constance Bay’ by A.J.Wilmott the head of Loch Nedd by and M.S.Campbell; also found at A.O.Chater. 0 1 2 3 Clashnessie by A.J.Wilmott in 1944. 124 tetrads. Widespread in dry Carex pallescens L. places, growing in rock crevices ssp. oedocarpa (Andersson) Seisg Gheal and dry heath. When growing on B.Schmid Pale Sedge rock it is easily recognised even in (C. demissa Hornem) winter, because of its tufts of Seisg Bhuidhe Choitcheann 81 tetrads. It is difficult to say curved leaves and stems, the latter Common Yellow-sedge what determines the distribution of persisting after the utricles have this species, which may be fallen. First recorded in 1894 on 153 tetrads. One of the common in, or absent from, ‘Knockan Crags’ by G.C.Druce. commonest and most widespread apparently similar areas. It does sedges in wet and open places: not require the damp sheltered

161 Flora of Assynt

Carex limosa L. wet ground, often in association Seisg na Mòna with Rhynchospora alba. Bog-sedge 3 Frequently seen growing on Sphagnum, on the edge of bog pools and mires. First recorded in 2 1907 ‘at base of Quinag’ by 3 G.C.Druce. 1

2 Carex rupestris All. 0 1 2 3 Seisg na Creige 1 Rock Sedge particularly common beside water. Also in marshes and flushes and on 0 1 2 3 roadside verges. First recorded in 1887 at Lochan Feòir by E.S. 3 49 tetrads. Occasional in shallow Marshall. muddy or silty water, in mires, bog pools and amongst reedswamp on 2 the edges of lochs. The plants lie Carex bigelowii Torr. ex Schwein. along the surface of the water with Dùr-sheisg 1 the ends of their leaves curving Stiff Sedge upwards, making them identifiable even in the non-flowering state. 0 1 2 3 Quite often in the same places as C. lasiocarpa; the distribution 3 9 tetrads. Confined to limestone maps are similar. First recorded in cliffs and outcrops, down to 300m. 1890 ‘in two bogs near Lochinver’ Shy-flowering, but recognisable in by E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. 2 the vegetative state by its persistent curled leaves which have 1 earned it the name of ‘pig’s-tail Carex aquatilis Wahlenb. sedge’. First recorded in 1890 on Seisg Uisge ‘Limestone cliffs, in a valley about Water Sedge 0 1 2 3 three miles on the Altnagealgach side of Inchnadamph, [Allt nan 30 tetrads. Frequent on the higher Uamh?], in great abundance, at hills, down to just over 400m. In 600 to 800 feet’ by E.S.Marshall 3 screes, flushes and montane heath. and F.J.Hanbury. First recorded, as ‘C.stricta’, in 1886, on ‘Coinne mheal, Quinag’ 2 by A.Gray. Carex pulicaris L. Seisg na Deargainn 1 Flea Sedge Carex pauciflora Lightf. Seisg nan Lusan Gann 0 1 2 3 Few-flowered Sedge 3 1 tetrad. Found in two places in reedswamp bordering the Ledmore 2 River. First recorded in 1992 near 3 the river mouth, and in 1997 about a kilometre upstream. 1 2

Carex nigra (L.) Reichard 1 0 1 2 3 Gainnisg Common Sedge 141 tetrads. Widespread and 0 1 2 3 common where there are 153 tetrads. One of the most mesotrophic conditions in wet abundant sedges, growing in a 62 tetrads. In bogs, widespread grassland, wet heath and bog. First wide range of wet habitats, but but not common. Found on really

162 Flowering plants and ferns recorded in 1894 on ‘Knockan Festuca altissima All. Crags’ by G.C.Druce. Fèisd Choille Wood Fescue 3

POACEAE 2 3 Nardus stricta L. 1 Riasg Mat-grass 2 0 1 2 3 1 at Achmelvich, Clashnessie and 3 Unapool. First recorded in 1995 at 0 1 2 3 the last-named site.

2 1 tetrad. In the wooded Creag an ssp. arctica (Hack.) Govor. Spardain ravine, under north-east 1 facing crags, a number of clumps of the fescue grow in a tall herb/tall fern community with 3 0 1 2 3 much Luzula sylvatica. This is its only station in Assynt and the most 156 tetrads. Abundant and northerly in Britain. First recorded 2 sometimes dominant in dry heath in the 1970s by R.E.C.Ferreira. and acid grassland, from sea level 1 to the tops of hills. First recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by Festuca rubra L. J.Robertson. Fèisd Ruadh 0 1 2 3 Red Fescue 3 tetrads. In the hills: on the stony Festuca arundinacea Schreb. shore of Loch Mhaolach-coire, in Fèisd Ard acid grassland on Quinag and on Tall Fescue 3 wet scree at Coire an Lochan. First recorded in 1994 at the third site. 2 3 1 Festuca ovina L. Feur Chaorach 2 Sheep’s-fescue 0 1 2 3 1 131 tetrads. Widespread and common in all types of grassland, 3 0 1 2 3 coastal and hill, calcareous and acid. First recorded in 1767 near 2 9 tetrads. Found very Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. occasionally along roadside verges, where it has probably been There are records for two 1 introduced, and once in the subspecies: grassland by Ardvreck Castle. First recorded in 1988 near ssp. juncea (Hack.) K.Richt. 0 1 2 3

Inchnadamph (roadside and ‘banks 130 tetrads. Widespread and of islets in Traligill Burn’) and at 4 tetrads. Grassland, including common in grassland and dry Achmelvich by P.J.O.Trist. roadside verges, near the sea heath, but not found on the tops of

the hills. First recorded in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson.

163 Flora of Assynt

Festuca vivipara (L.) Sm. Inverkirkaig and Strathan, on a Feur Chaorach Bèo-bhreitheach trackside at Ardroe and a roadside Viviparous Sheep’s-fescue 3 at Unapool. First recorded as ‘F. sciuroides’ in 1894 ‘near Elphin and Ledbeg’ by G.C.Druce. 2 Recorded for NC12 in the first 3 Atlas. 1

2 Cynosurus cristatus L. 0 1 2 3 Coin-fheur 1 Crested Dog’s-tail seed on the feet of stock, or as feed at some time in the past. First 0 1 2 3 recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 3 155 tetrads. The most widespread sheep’s-fescue, growing in heath and grassland of all kinds, from Lolium multiflorum Lam. 2 sea level to high on the hills. First Breòillean Eadailteach recorded in 1767 near Italian Rye-grass 1 Inchnadamph by J.Robertson.

0 1 2 3 Festuca filiformis Pourr. 3 (F. tenuifolia Sibth.) 97 tetrads. Widespread and Feur Chaorach Mìn common in the more fertile Fine-leaved Sheep’s-fescue 2 grasslands, but not in montane habitats. First recorded in 1767 1 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson.

3 0 1 2 3 Puccinellia maritima (Huds.) Parl.

2 Feur Rèisg Ghoirt 2 tetrads. Found only rarely, as a Common Saltmarsh-grass garden weed at Loch Assynt 1 Lodge and Ledmore. Presumably an accidental introduction. First recorded in 1944 as a ‘garden 3 0 1 2 3 weed’ at Lochinver, by A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. 98 tetrads. Widespread and 2 common in grassland and dry, rocky places. Less frequent Vulpia bromoides (L.) Gray 1 around the coast than F. ovina. Fèisd Aimrid First recorded in 1943 near Squirreltail Fescue Lochinver by U.K.Duncan. 0 1 2 3

5 tetrads. Occasional in Lolium perenne L. 3 Breòillean saltmarshes at Achmelvich, Perennial Rye-grass Baddidarach, Duart Loch, Loch 2 Nedd and Lochan na Leobaig, but 68 tetrads. Not a native grass and rarely flowers, so may be under- recorded. A Puccinellia, presumed its distribution is closely tied in 1 with the influence of man. to be this species, was recorded in Occasional on roadside verges, 1956 in ‘saltmarsh at the head of Loch Nedd’ by A.O.Chater, and in waste places and grassland away 0 1 2 3 from the road which is near old 1972, P.Adam recorded P. dwellings or fanks. The grass 5 tetrads. A rare grass, growing maritima from ‘Loch Nedd presumably arrived there either as on outcrop rock at Badnaban, saltmarsh’.

164 Flowering plants and ferns

Briza media L. Conan Cumanta Quaking-grass 3 3

2 2

3 1 1

2

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 1 places at low altitudes: ditches, First recorded in 1897 at marshes, cultivated ground and Inchnadamph by E.S.Marshall. 0 1 2 3 shaded places where there is long grass, such as in old fanks. First 6 tetrads. Apart from a curious recorded in 1767 near Poa angustifolia L. outlier on the verge near Cnoc Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Tràthach na Duilleige Caoile a’Bhainne, all the records come Narrow-leaved Meadow-grass from grassland or roadside verges on limestone: near Inchnadamph, Poa humilis Ehrh. ex Hoffm. Not seen during the present survey. Achmore, Ardvreck Castle and (P. subcaerulea Sm.) First recorded in 1890 as ‘P. Allt a’Chalda Beag. First recorded Tràthach Sgaoilte pratensis var. angustifolia…near in 1949 at Ardvreck Castle by Spreading Meadow-grass Inchnadamph on limestone’, by M.McC.Webster. Also mapped E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. for NC21 in the first Atlas.

3 Poa glauca Vahl Poa annua L. Tràthach Liath-ghorm Tràthach Bliadhnail Glaucous Meadow-grass Annual Meadow-grass 2

1 3 3 0 1 2 3 2 2 86 tetrads. Frequent in light, disturbed ground on roadsides and 1 1 particularly noticeable on tops of old walls. Also in hill grasslands to an altitude of c.500m. in the 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 Bealach Traligill. First recorded in 1894 on ‘Knockan Crags’ by 2 tetrads. Very rare. Found by 100 tetrads. Widespread and G.C.Druce. G.P.Rothero on the Fucoid Beds, common in grassland of many in two places in Bealach Traligill. types, waste and disturbed ground, First recorded in 1899 on ‘Canisp, verges and tracks, where it will Poa pratensis L. at 2000 feet’ by C.E.Salmon. tolerate dry conditions. Although Tràthach Mìn not usually on high rocky ground, Smooth Meadow-grass it does occur in the hills in Poa nemoralis L. bryophyte flushes. First recorded 11 tetrads. This species may have Tràthach Coille in 1767 near Inchnadamph by been under-recorded in the early Wood Meadow-grass J.Robertson. stages of the survey, but even so, it is not a common grass, occurring Not seen during the present survey. only in coastal and limestone First recorded in 1899 on ‘Beinn- Poa trivialis L. grasslands. an-Fhurain’ by C.E.Salmon, as Tràthach Garbh ‘var. glaucantha’; we are not sure Rough Meadow-grass to which modern taxon this should

53 tetrads. Occasional in damp

165 Flora of Assynt be ascribed. P. nemoralis was Catapodium marinum (L.) recorded from NC02 during the C.E.Hubb. 1950s survey for the first Atlas. Feur Gainmhich 3 Sea Fern-grass

Dactylis glomerata L. 2 Garbh-fheur Cock’s-foot 3 1

2 0 1 2 3 3 1 growing mainly on rock faces in gorges and in rocky woodland. 2 Associated on the gneiss with 0 1 2 3 basic or ultra-basic dykes. First 1 recorded in 1897 near Lochinver 3 tetrads. Rare coastal grass by E.S.Marshall. found at Clachtoll and Stoer in 0 1 2 3 sandy grassland close to the sea. First recorded as ‘Desmazeria Helictotrichon pubescens (Huds.) 65 tetrads. Frequent in the more loliacea’, in 1943 on ‘coastal Pilg. fertile grassland where this is rocks, Clachtoll’ by A.J.Wilmott Feur Coirce Clumhach affected by man’s activities, and M.S.Campbell. Downy Oat-grass particularly roadside verges. Plants in the hills away from tracks have probably been brought in as Glyceria fluitans (L.) R.Br. seed by grazing animals. First Mìlsean Uisge 3 recorded in 1767 near Floating Sweet-grass

Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 2

Catabrosa aquatica (L.) P.Beauv. 3 1 Feur-sùghmhòr Whorl-grass 2 0 1 2 3

1 32 tetrads. Occasional, mainly in grasslands near the coast and in 3 limestone areas. First recorded in 0 1 2 3 1894 at ‘Knockan Crags’ by 2 G.C.Druce. 63 tetrads. The only Glyceria found in Assynt. Occurs in a range 1 of habitats, both terrestrial and Helictotrichon pratense (L.) aquatic. Found in ditches and Besser. muddy margins of rivers and Feur Coirce Lòin 0 1 2 3 pools. Also in lochs, pools and Meadow Oat-grass 3 tetrads. Rare. Occurs on the slow-moving burns, where the damp, sandy margins of small leaves lie along the surface of the water courses at Achmelvich and water. First recorded in 1890 at in wet hollows or along the high ‘1200 feet in a loch near 3 tide mark at Clachtoll. First Inchnadamph’ by E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. recorded in 1886 at Clachtoll by 2 A.Gray; also, in 1982, ‘in wet area by burn across machair, Stoer’, by P.J.O.Trist. Melica nutans L. 1 Meilig an t-Slèibhe Critheanach Mountain Melick 0 1 2 3 22 tetrads. An uncommon grass

166 Flowering plants and ferns

1 tetrad. The first and only record Clachtoll, Stoer and Oldany Island. was made in 1993, on the gravels First recorded in 1767, as ‘Aira of the River Loanan. cristata’, near Inchnadamph by 3 J.Robertson.

Arrhenatherum elatius (L.) 2 P.Beauv. ex J. & C.Presl Deschampsia cespitosa (L.) Feur Coirce Brèige P.Beauv. 1 False Oat-grass Tufted Hair-grass

ssp. cespitosa 0 1 2 3 Cuiseag Airgid 3 have some shallow peaty/muddy margins. This species was probably under-recorded in the 2 3 first stage of the survey, before we learned to check the lemmas of 1 tufts of fine grass at the water’s 2 edge for their characteristically horned and toothed apices. 0 1 2 3 1 First recorded in 1993 by D.A. Pearman from Loch an Ordain 42 tetrads. Almost entirely (Achmelvich). confined to roadsides, waste and 0 1 2 3 disturbed ground. First recorded in 1894 ‘near Elphin and Ledbeg’ by 121 tetrads. Widespread and Deschampsia flexuosa (L.) Trin. G.C.Druce. common in marshes, ditches, Mòin-fheur roadsides and waste places. First Wavy Hair-grass recorded during the 1950s survey [Trisetum flavescens (L.) P.Beauv. for the first Atlas. Feur Coirce Buidhe Yellow Oat-grass ssp. alpina (L.) Hook. 3 Mòin-fheur Ailpeach Not seen during the present survey. First reported as ‘Avena 2 flavescens’ in 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 3 1 Anthony has ‘Lochinver, 1886, A.G[ray]’, but Gray’s paper does 2 not localise it to Assynt.] 0 1 2 3

1 146 tetrads. Widespread and Koeleria macrantha (Ledeb.) Sch. common in dry situations; amongst (K. cristata auct non (L.)Pers. heather, on banks, in gorges and in Cuiseag Dhosach open woodland. An attractive 0 1 2 3 Crested Hair-grass grass with its delicate panicles and 2 tetrads. First recorded in 1995 soft, dense, fine tussocks. First by G.P.Rothero, in a basic flush at recorded in 1767 near 450m. on Glas Bheinn and in 1998 Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 3 at 940m. on the north ridge of Conival with Luzula arcuata. Holcus lanatus L. 2 Feur a’Chinn Bhàin Deschampsia setacea (Huds.) Yorkshire-fog 1 Hack. Mòin-fheur Bogaich 130 tetrads. Widespread and abundant in most types of Bog Hair-grass grassland in open situations, 0 1 2 3 12 tetrads. Grows on the very although not on the tops of the 3 tetrads. Rare. We have found it edge of the water, in lochs which highest hills. only in coastal grasslands, at

167 Flora of Assynt

banks and dry heath, this is a Phalaris arundinacea L. surprisingly uncommon grass. Cuiseagrach 3 First recorded during the 1950s Reed Canary-grass survey for the first Atlas.

2 Aira praecox L. 3 1 Cuiseag an Earraich Early Hair-grass 2 0 1 2 3 1 First recorded during the 1950s 3 survey for the first Atlas. 0 1 2 3 2 Holcus mollis L. 30 tetrads. Occasional in marshy Mìn-fheur 1 grassland, wet scrub and Creeping Soft-grass particularly in ditches. First recorded in 1886 ‘Elphin – 0 1 2 3 Inchnadamph’ by A.Gray.

3 98 tetrads. Common on dry banks, rocks, old walls, tracksides, Agrostis capillaris L. disturbed ground and in short (A. tenuis Sibth.) 2 grassland. First recorded during Freothainn the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. Common Bent 1

Anthoxanthum odoratum L. 0 1 2 3 Borrach 3 Sweet Vernal-grass 89 tetrads. Common in acid grassland where there is at least a 2 little shade. This may be provided by bracken cover, a small patch of 3 1 scrub or, of course, woodland. First recorded during the 1950s 2 survey for the first Atlas. 0 1 2 3

1 136 tetrads. Widespread and Aira caryophyllea L. abundant in dry grassland of all Sìdh-fheur kinds. First recorded in 1890 at Silver Hair-grass 0 1 2 3 Kylesku by E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. 158 tetrads. Widespread and abundant in all types of grassland, 3 lowland and montane, coastal and Agrostis castellana Boiss. & Reut. inland. The ‘hole in the map’ is Highland Bent the barren tetrad on the quartzite 2 on the south-eastern slope of Canisp, where a determined search 1 might still find it. First recorded in 3 1767 near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 2 0 1 2 3

18 tetrads. Considering the wide 1 range of habitats in which it occurs, river gravels, verges, walls, 0 1 2 3

168 Flowering plants and ferns

1 tetrad. The first and only record Agrostis vinealis Schreb. B.Flannigan; also, according to for Assynt was made in 1996, from Fioran Badanach Anthony, at Oldany, but there are acid grassland beside the path to Brown Bent no further details of this record. Suilven, 0.5 km. west of Suileag. The identification has been confirmed. This is a curious Ammophila arenaria (L.) Link situation for a grass which is said 3 Muran to be introduced for amenity Marram purposes. 2

Agrostis stolonifera L. 1 3 Fìoran Creeping Bent 2 0 1 2 3

69 tetrads. Frequent, but in much 1 3 drier situations than the preceding species. Dry heath, acid grassland, rocky banks and sometimes on 0 1 2 3 2 outcrop rock. First recorded as a species in 1988 during the B.S.B.I. 4 tetrads. On sand dunes at 1 Monitoring Survey. Achmelvich, Clachtoll and Clashnessie. First recorded, from NC02, 03 and 13, in the 1950s 0 1 2 3 Calamagrostis epigejos (L.) Roth survey for the first Atlas Cuilc-fheur Coille 134 tetrads. Widespread and very Wood Small-reed common in wet habitats, on wet Alopecurus pratensis L. mud at the water’s edge, in Fiteag an Lòin saltmarshes, marshes and ditches. Meadow Foxtail First recorded in 1767 near 3 Inchnadamph by J.Robertson.

2 3 Agrostis canina L. Fioran Mìn 1 Velvet Bent 2

0 1 2 3 1

3 2 tetrads. Very rare. Found by R.E.C.Ferreira in the 1980s in 0 1 2 3 woodland south of Creag Ruigh 2 a’Chàirn, on the north side of the 12 tetrads. Occasional in burn. During the present survey it grassland, where its presence is 1 was discovered on the roadside probably due to the influence of edge of woodland, on the north- man and his stock. Mostly on western side of the road running verges or grassland near fanks. 0 1 2 3 along Loch Assynt, at a point First recorded in 1894 ‘near Elphin about 1.5km. s.w. of Tumore and Ledbeg’ by G.C.Druce. 104 tetrads. Widespread and Lodge. This species may common in wet grassland, wet occasionally go undetected heath and marshes. A. canina s.l. because, if no flowers are present, Alopecurus geniculatus L. was first recorded in 1767 near it is not easy to distinguish from Fiteag Cham Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. the ubiquitous Molinia. First Marsh Foxtail recorded in 1958 at ‘Stoer’ by 19 tetrads. Occasional in wet open places; ditches, verges, tracksides and occasionally a mire

169 Flora of Assynt

Bromus hordeaceus L. and the River Traligill, on a Soft-brome wooded cliff at Duart, in rocky 3 woodland at Liath Bhad and on the ssp. hordeaceus banks of Na Luirgean. First (B. mollis L.) recorded in 1908 ‘near 2 Bròmas Bog Inchnadamph; very rare’ by E.S.Marshall and W.A.Shoolbred. 1 Also mapped from NC02 in the first Atlas. 3 0 1 2 3 Anisantha sterilis (L.) Nevski 2 or flush. First recorded in 1894 Bromàs Aimrid ‘near Elphin and Ledbeg’ by Barren Brome G.C.Druce. 1

Phleum pratense L. 0 1 2 3 3 Feur Cait Timothy 6 tetrads. Most of the records are 2 from man-influenced habitats, road and tracksides or stock-feeding areas. Presumably originally 1 3 introduced with fodder. First recorded as ‘B. mollis’ in 1943 at Lochinver by U.K.Duncan. 0 1 2 3 2 1 tetrad. One record, from Nedd,

1 Bromus lepidus Holmb. where it appeared briefly in a Bròmas Bog Caol garden. First recorded in 1956 at Slender Soft-brome Inchnadamph by G.Halliday.

0 1 2 3 Not seen during the present survey. 9 tetrads. Occasional on roadsides First recorded in 1959 from NC22. Brachypodium sylvaticum (Huds.) and in waste places. Probably P.Beauv. originally introduced to the area as Bròmas Brèige a fodder grass, or in hay. First Bromopsis ramosa (Huds.) Holub False Brome recorded in NC21 during the 1950s (Bromus ramosus Huds.) survey for the first Atlas. Bròmas Giobach Hairy Brome 3 Phleum bertolonii DC. Feur Cait Beag 2 Smaller Cat’s-tail 3

Not seen during the present survey. 1 2 First recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas, from NC21. 1 0 1 2 3

39 tetrads. Frequent in woodland Bromus commutatus Schrad. 0 1 2 3 or other shaded rocky places, on Bròmas Lòin burn banks, cliffs and in gorges. Meadow Brome 5 tetrads. Rare in rocky First recorded in 1943 on ‘rock situations, wooded, or shaded in ledge between Achadhantuir and Not seen during the present survey. some other way: under trees on the Feadan; Clashnessie’ by First recorded in 1894 in banks of the Allt a’Chalda Mòr A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. ‘cornfields…Elphin and Knockain’ by G.C.Druce.

170 Flowering plants and ferns

Elymus caninus (L.) L. 3 tetrads. Rare. Found at (Agropyron caninum (L.) Beauv.) Achmelvich in quantity in the fore- Glas-fheur Calgach 3 dunes, its classic habitat. Also in Bearded Couch crevices in an east-facing ridge of rock at Clachtoll and on Meall 2 Dearg at Culkein Drumbeg, where five plants were found in otherwise 3 1 bare rock. First recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas.

2 0 1 2 3 Danthonia decumbens (L.) DC. 1 scourge of gardens that it can be (Sieglingia decumbens (L.) further south. First recorded in Bernh.) 1886, as ‘Triticum repens’, at Feur Monaidh 0 1 2 3 Elphin by A.Gray. Heath-grass

8 tetrads. An uncommon grass of woodland and damp, or even wet, Elytrigia juncea (L.) Nevski rocky places. One record is from (Agropyron junceum (L.) 3 the wall of a sluice at the south- P.Beauv.) western end of Loch Assynt. First Glas-fheur recorded in 1890 by E.S.Marshall Sand Couch 2 and F.J.Hanbury, who said of it ‘a state with unusually long awns 1 grows about Lochinver, and on the limestone about Inchnadamph’. 3 0 1 2 3 var. donianus (Buch.-White) Melderis 2 126 tetrads. Widespread and Don’s Twitch common in damp heathy places, 1 less frequent in limestone areas. Not identified during the present First recorded in 1767 near survey. This short-awned variety Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. was first noted locally in 1887 0 1 2 3 ‘near Inchnadamph’ by E.S.Marshall. It was re-discovered 4 tetrads. In blown sand and Molinia caerulea (L.) Moench in 1951 by John Raven after some dunes at Achmelvich, Clachtoll, Fianach detective work, and found by him Clashnessie and Oldany. First Purple Moor-grass to be frequent all down the lower recorded at Achmelvich during the reaches of the Traligill. It was 1950s survey for the first Atlas. once regarded as a distinct species, or at least subspecies, but is now 3 known to form ‘fertile hybrids Leymus arenarius (L.) Hochst. with var. caninus, that show every (Elymus arenarius L.) degree of intermediacy’ (Stace Taithean 2 1997), hence its demotion. Lyme-grass

1

Elytrigia repens (L.) Desv. ex Nevski 3 0 1 2 3 (Agropyron repens (L.) Beauv). Feur a’Phuint 2 154 tetrads. Widespread and, in Common Couch suitably flat or gently sloping wet places, dominant. Grows most 14 tetrads. Fortunately this grass 1 luxuriantly in this wet climate does not live up to its name in particularly in flat valleys beside Assynt and although it may occur rivers, where it can produce ankle- in cultivated ground, it is not the 0 1 2 3 breaking tussocks over a considerable area. First recorded

171 Flora of Assynt in 1767 near Inchnadamph by Meur flowing into Loch Urigill the water. First recorded, as ‘S. J.Robertson. and in a sheltered bay on that loch. affine’, in 1886 at Elphin by Material from that bay was A.Gray. identified as ssp. neglectum. First Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. recorded in 1886 at Elphin by ex Steud. A.Gray. Sparganium x diversifolium (Phragmites communis Trin.) Graebn. Cuilc S. angustifolium x S. emersum Common Reed Sparganium emersum Rehmann Seisg Rìgh Madaidh Not seen during the present survey. Unbranched Bur-reed First recorded in 1955 at Clashmore (perhaps Loch na 3 Claise) by C.D.K.Cook.

3 2 Sparganium natans L. (S. minimum Wallr.) 2 1 Seisg Rìgh Mion Least Bur-reed 1 0 1 2 3

40 tetrads. A striking feature of 0 1 2 3 3 many lowland lochs, where its stands may be dominant in the 5 tetrads. Uncommon, in the shallow water. Also found in reedswamp on the edge of lochs. 2 mires and drier habitats, such as Found only in fertile lochs in the wet heathland and around small north-west, where there is a 1 patches of willow scrub, where noticeable richness of vegetation: there is not even seasonal standing Loch an Achaidh, Loch an Aigeil, water. First recorded in 1767 near Loch na Claise, Loch Fasg an t- 0 1 2 3 Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Seana Chlaidh and an un-named loch east of Achmelvich Bay. 35 tetrads. Occasional in its First recorded in 1955 at required habitats of sheltered bays, SPARGANIACEAE Clashmore (perhaps Loch na backwaters and shores, where Claise) by C.D.K.Cook, and from there is exposed silty mud or very Cam Loch (NC21) during the shallow water. The short, bright Sparganium erectum L. Scottish Loch Survey. lettuce-green leaves lying on the Seisg Rìgh mud are easily spotted. First Branched Bur-reed recorded in 1943 at Baddidarach Sparganium angustifolium Michx. by A.J.Wilmott and Seisg Rìgh air Bhog M.S.Campbell. Also recorded in Floating Bur-reed 1958 on the River Loanan at 3 Inchnadamph by J.Anthony.

2 3 LILIACEAE

1 2 Tofieldia pusilla (Michx.) Pers. Bliochan Albannach 0 1 2 3 1 Scottish Asphodel

6 tetrads. Uncommon, in 3 tetrads. It has been found reedswamp alongside rivers. 0 1 2 3 mainly in the vicinity of the River Apparently confined to the Traligill. On the Allt na Glaic extreme southern tip of the parish, 74 tetrads. Widespread and Móire, which is a southern where it grows on the Ledmore common in rivers, burns and lochs, tributary of the River Traligill, are River in several places, on the sometimes high in the hills. The four sites, three on small islands in Ledbeg River and on the Abhainn long narrow leaves may extend to the burn and one on rock above the a’Chnocain. Also on the Allt nam a metre or more on the surface of

172 Flowering plants and ferns

Scilla verna Huds. Allium ursinum L. Lear-uinnean Creamh 3 Spring Squill Ramsons

2

3 3 1

2 2

0 1 2 3 1 1 waterfall, all at 100-200m. It grows in stony flushes on the east- ern side of Cnoc Eilid Mhathaid, 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 where 500 plants were noted at 350m. Two further sites, in similar 1 tetrad. First recorded in 1996 25 tetrads. Frequent in the damp habitats, are on Bealach Traligill at growing in short, rocky turf, where rocky woodlands of the north over 500m. First recorded in 1890 there is blown sand over gneiss, on coast. Can also be found in the near Inchnadamph, by the Achmelvich common grazings, shelter provided by a gorge, E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. just outside the boundary of Mrs I. boulder scree or riverside rocks. Ritchie’s croft. She has been First recorded in 1767 near aware of the population for 18 Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Narthecium ossifragum (L.) Huds. years; it appears to stay much the Bliochan same size from year to year, Bog Asphodel neither declining significantly nor Narcissus pseudo-narcissus L. spreading to adjacent patches of Lus a’Chrom-chinn Fiadhaich apparently similar turf. Daffodil

3 First recorded in 1886 at Ardvreck Hyacinthoides non-scripta (L.) Castle by A.Gray. It was probably Chouard ex Rothm. planted there at least 200 years ago 2 (Endymion non-scriptus (L.) and still persists. Garcke) 1 Bròg na Cuthaig Bluebell IRIDACEAE

0 1 2 3 Iris pseudacorus L. 157 tetrads. Widespread and 3 Seileasdair abundant in wet peaty places Yellow Iris throughout the parish, making a sheet of colour in bogs and wet 2 heaths in summer. First recorded in 1767, as ‘Anthericum 1 3 ossifragum’ near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. 2 0 1 2 3

Paris quadrifolia L. 84 tetrads. Frequent except on the 1 Aon-dhearc higher hills. As well as in the Herb-Paris expected habitats of woodland, scrub and shady banks, bluebells 0 1 2 3 Not seen during the present survey. thrive beneath bracken and Reported in 1923 ‘on an islet in heather; less often in open 44 tetrads. Common in lowland Loch Awe, near Inchnadamph’ by grassland. First recorded in 1767 marshes, riversides, ditches, and G.C.Druce, with the comment ‘an near Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. wet roadside verges. Salt tolerant interesting locality’. Anthony has and a frequent component of this record as ‘1895’, but it does marshes at the back of the shore. not appear in Druce’s paper of that date.

173 Flora of Assynt

First recorded in 1767 near Reported from scrub along Canisp Epipactis helleborine (L.) Crantz Inchnadamph by J.Robertson. Road, Lochinver in 2000. First Eileabor Leathann recorded in 1943 ‘between Broad-leaved Helleborine Achadhantuir and Feadan’ by Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. (Lemoine) N.E.Br. There is also a 1962 record by Fochann Innseanach D.E.Kimmins, from ‘roadside near 3 Montbretia bridge’ at the mouth of the River Kirkaig. Anthony also has it for Inverkirkaig. 2

3 1 Epipactis atrorubens (Hoffm.) Besser 2 Eilabor Dearg 0 1 2 3 Dark-red Helleborine 1 4 tetrads. Very rare. Found in the woodland along the Achmelvich road (see C. longifolia), on 0 1 2 3 3 wooded rocky banks of the Allt a’Chalda Mòr, in a conifer 7 tetrads. Naturalised 2 plantation beside the drive up to occasionally in marshes, where it Achins Bookshop at Inverkirkaig may come to dominate quite a and in deciduous woodland large area, at watersides and, in 1 nearby. First recorded in 1943 one place, on a roadside among ‘between Achadhantuir and other garden throw-outs. First Feadan’ by A.J.Wilmott and recorded at Drumbeg during the 0 1 2 3 M.S.Campbell. 1950s survey for the first Atlas. 7 tetrads. Rare. Confined to limestone outcrops and cliffs. Neottia nidus-avis (L.) Rich. ORCHIDACEAE Found in both the old exclosures Mogairlean Nead an Eòin on the N.N.R. at Inchnadamph and Bird’s-nest Orchid on the cliffs of Creag Sròn Cephalanthera longifolia (L.) Chrùbaidh. It has been recorded Fritsch from cliffs near the Inchnadamph Eileabor Geal Hotel, on ledges above the south- 3 Narrow-leaved Helleborine western bank of the River Traligill, upstream of Glenbain, and from Creag nan Uamh. Slightly apart 2 from the main Inchnadamph 3 cluster is the Lairig Unapool site, where the plant grows in crevices 1 and grykes of an isolated limestone 2 outcrop. Depending on the grazing 0 1 2 3 pressure there, the number of 1 spikes can vary greatly; only one 1 tetrad. Found in 1981 by was recorded in 1993, but more R.E.C.Ferreira, in the woodland on than 20 in 1998. First recorded in the south side of Loch Dubh. The 0 1 2 3 1827 ‘on limestone rocks in wood extends up the hillside, but Assynt’ by R.A.Graham. Graham the orchids are beneath hazel on 2 tetrads. The most northerly used the name ‘Epipactis latifolia’, the flat ground at the bottom of the station for this orchid in Britain is which is a synonym for E. slope. Recorded in 1954 in NC13 the birch/hazel/aspen woodland on helleborine, but the context by M.E.D.Poore, but not mapped the hillside along the Achmelvich indicates that he was referring to in the first Atlas. road. The helleborines are mostly E. atrorubens. The first reference in that part of the wood near to the to Inchnadamph is in 1886 by road, where the light level is good. A.Gray. The population is thriving there, with over 150 spikes noted by the Inverness Botany Group in 2000.

174 Flowering plants and ferns

Listera ovata (L.) R.Br. Hammarbya paludosa (L.) Kuntze Greater and 30 Lesser Butterfly- Dà-dhuilleach Coitcheann Mogairlean Bogaich orchids. No doubt other places Common Twayblade Bog Orchid exist where the presence of the orchids will go undetected until a chance alteration in grazing pattern occurs. The sites have all been 3 3 grassland with the exception of an island in Loch Awe, where the plants were growing under trees. 2 2 First recorded in 1890, as ‘H. chloroleuca’ by E.S.Marshall and 1 1 F.J.Hanbury, with the remarks ‘plentifully at Inchnadamph and Lochinver…an ornament of open 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 grassy meadows’. Not any longer!

12 tetrads. Occasional in 5 tetrads. Apparently rare, but limestone grassland in the any plant whose flowering spike is Platanthera bifolia (L.) Rich. Inchnadamph and Elphin areas and green and whose height varies Mogairlean an Dealain-dè Beag also on the Lairig Unapool from 2-10cm., is almost certainly Lesser Butterfly-orchid outcrop. Found, exceptionally, on under-recorded in a landscape such the gneiss, on wooded cliffs south as this! It grows at Clashnessie, on of Loch Doirean Rairidh. First gravelly sands by a rivulet below recorded during the 1950s survey the falls, and at Poll Bhuidhe, on 3 for the first Atlas from NC02, as bare ground in a Schoenus mire. well as 21 and 22. In his card The other three records are from index Anthony lists records from Sphagnum: at the edge of runnels 2 Achmelvich and Stoer. at Suileag, beside the Bealach Leireag path and on the stony 1 shore of an un-named loch west of Listera cordata (L.) R.Br. Loch a’Ghlinnein. First recorded Dà-dhuilleach Monaidh in 1890 at Kylesku and near 0 1 2 3 Lesser Twayblade Lochinver by E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. 35 tetrads. Occasional in damp places in the hills amongst heather and often near Schoenus flushes. 3 Platanthera chlorantha (Custer) Sometimes in grassland (see Rchb. preceding species). First recorded Mogairlean an Dealain-dè Mòr in 1767, as ‘Orchis bifolia’, near 2 Greater Butterfly-orchid Inchnadamph by J.Robertson.

1 Pseudorchis albida (L.) 3 Á.&D.Löve 0 1 2 3 (Leucorchis albida (L.) E.Mey.) Mogairlean Bàn Beag 45 tetrads. Widely distributed but 2 Small-white Orchid not common and, as it is so small and well hidden, probably under- 1 recorded. Grows on moss, particularly Sphagnum, under 3 heather and on mossy boulders in 0 1 2 3 woodland. Always in very 2 sheltered situations. First recorded 10 tetrads. Found usually in ones in 1886, just for ‘Assynt’, by and twos, as is the case in a rich A.Gray. pasture at Inchnadamph. At 1 Clashmore, an unpromising- looking field which had had the

grazing reduced in 2000, produced 0 1 2 3 that year a goldmine of at least 11

175 Flora of Assynt

22 tetrads. The scattered sites are mostly in the open amongst short heather, often on the edge of sheep 3 3 paths, but the plant can also occur on rocky outcrops high in the hills. A large form has been recorded on 2 2 a wooded island in Loch Awe, presumably in response to the 1 1 shady conditions there. First recorded in 1767 as ‘Orchis albida’ near Inchnadamph by 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 J.Robertson and noted to be ‘abundant in Traligill Glen’ by Inchnadamph and in coastal Found in wet and dry heath, open G.C.Druce in 1907. grassland. Also grows in the hills woodland and grassland, from high on grassy ledges. First recorded in in the hills down almost to sea 1886, just for ‘Assynt’, by A.Gray. level. First recorded in 1767 near Gymnadenia conopsea (L.) R.Br. In 1894 G.C.Druce recorded it as Inchnadamph by J.Robertson Lus Taghte ‘not infrequent’ from Knockan Fragrant Orchid Crags. Dactylorhiza incarnata (L.) Soó (Dactylorchis incarnata (L.) Dactylorhiza fuchsii (Druce) Soó Verm.) 3 (Dactylorchis fuchsii (Druce) Mogairlean Lèana Verm.) Early Marsh-orchid Urach Bhallach 2 Common Spotted-orchid First recorded, as the species only, in 1890 by E.S.Marshall and 1 F.J.Hanbury, ‘about Inchnadamph, but very scarce’. Four subspecies 3 have been recorded during the 0 1 2 3 present survey:

54 tetrads. Frequent on roadsides, 2 ssp. incarnata dry heath and hill grassland, especially on the gneiss. First 1 recorded during the 1950s survey for the first Atlas. Anthony has 3 only ssp. conopsea, although 0 1 2 3 current thinking would suggest ssp. borealis as the most likely 1 tetrad. Very rare. In limestone 2 taxon. grassland on the Ardvreck Castle peninsula. First recorded during 1 the 1950s survey for the first Atlas Gymnadenia x Platanthera for NC03, 21 and 22. Recorded Gymnadenia x Dactylorhiza for NC13 in 1981 by P.H.Gamble. 0 1 2 3 ‘Ssp. okellyi’ (now accorded only These inter-generic hybrids were varietal rank) was recorded, prior 34 tetrads. Scattered in damp photographed by L.Tucker to 1970, from NC22 in the Critical grassland, Schoenus flushes and alongside the Allt a’Chalda Mór in Supplement. wet heath, on neutral or base-rich 1998, but have not been seen since. soils. First recorded in 1990 at Achadh Mór. Dactylorhiza maculata (L.) Soó Coeloglossum viride (L.) Hartm. ssp. ericetorum (E.F.Linton) ssp. coccinea (Pugsley) Soó Mogairlean Losgainn P.F.Hunt & Summerh. Frog Orchid (Dactylorchis maculata (L.) 2 tetrads. Rare; in flushed Verm.) grassland below a crag near the sea 18 tetrads. Very local in Mogairlean Moìntich at Clachtoll and in a wet area in grassland, usually on base-rich Heath Spotted-orchid dune grassland at Stoer. soils, the greatest concentration of records being in the vicinity of 144 tetrads. Widespread and common throughout the parish. .

176 Flowering plants and ferns

Dactylorhiza lapponica (Hartm.) ‘on machair, Achmelvich Bay’ by Soó A.J.Wilmott and M.S.Campbell. 3 Mogairlean Lapach Lapland Orchid Dactylorhiza x formosa (T. & 2 T.A.Stephenson) Soó D. purpurella x D. maculata ssp. 1 3 ericetorum

2 0 1 2 3 3 First recorded from the second of 1 these sites in 1997. 2 ssp. pulchella (Druce) Soó 0 1 2 3 1 3 tetrads. The southern station for this Red Data Book species is in 3 the same mire as D. incarnata ssp. 0 1 2 3 cruenta, although in the adjoining tetrad. It grows in the south- 2 2 tetrads. First recorded in 2001 eastern corner of the mire, which is by L.Tucker from grassland dominated at this point by around the building housing the 1 Schoenus. Of the two northern ‘Maryck Memories of Childhood’ tetrads the main populations are in at Unapool. Coincidentally, it was the western one, where it grows in found two days later at Stoer, on Schoenus flushes and where 0 1 2 3 the common grazings just outside

Schoenus tufts edge a runnel. the grounds of Smithy House. 24 tetrads. Occasional in damp Several small stands of peaty places and Schoenus mires. Platanthera bifolia and D. First recorded in 1990 near Loch incarnata ssp. incarnata are not far Orchis mascula (L.) L. Eileanach. away. The eastern site had only Moth-ùrach one spike, again in a Schoenus Early-purple Orchid ssp. cruenta (O.F.Müll.) P.D.Sell mire. First recorded in 1986 by R.E.C.Ferreira, from the western of the two northern tetrads.

3 3 Dactylorhiza purpurella (T. & T.A.Stephenson) Soó 2 2 (Dactylorchis purpurella (T. & T.A.Stephenson) Verm.) 1 1 Mogairlean Purpaidh Northern Marsh-orchid

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3

25 tetrads. On limestone or at 1 tetrad. This Red Data Book 3 least base-rich grassland, often plant is a recent addition to the amongst rocks. There are a few Assynt flora. It was discovered in coastal records, but most are 1998 by R.E.C.Ferreira and 2 centred on the limestone areas of A.Scott. When re-located, a single Inchnadamph and Elphin. An plant was found beside a small 1 uncommon white-flowered form pool, on the western edge of an has been seen on the footpath extensive mire, just south of Loch leading to Port Alltan na Bradhan Poll an Nigheidh. In that area of 0 1 2 3 and at Achmelvich. First recorded the mire Carex lasiocarpa was the in 1890 at Inchnadamph by dominant species. See also under 35 tetrads. Frequent in damp E.S.Marshall and F.J.Hanbury. D. lapponica. grassy places, on roadsides and in marshes. First recorded in 1943

177 Flora of Assynt

178 Flowering plants and ferns

179