SOMERSET RARE PLANTS GROUP www.somersetrareplantsgroup.org.uk 2011 Newsletter Issue No.12 Editor: Caroline Giddens December 2011

REPORTS OF MEETINGS, 2011.

The AGM and Members’ Meeting Conifer Workshop Saturday 15th January 2011 Saturday 12th February 2011 Sixteen members attended the Annual This indoor meeting was held at Shapwick Members’ Meeting and AGM at the Lifelong Lifelong Learning Centre where Clare and Learning Centre at Shapwick on Saturday 15th Mark Kitchen presented a day of conifer January 2011. Steve Parker welcomed taxonomy, mainly demonstrating the use of everyone present and said the Group had John Poland’s Vegetative key. Material from enjoyed a good year with thanks due to all a wide range of species was available but the who had led the various excursions and emphasis was on identifying those that are meetings which were reported in the commonly planted and found naturalised in Newsletter now being distributed. We were the wild. Help was given with pleased to welcome Emma Koblizek from understanding the botanical terms used in the SERC and she was asked to convey our key. The features used in the key are, as thanks to the Record Centre for their help expected, vegetative but it is useful to use with funding for a further supply of cone features for confirmation of Recording Cards, ten hand lenses and the identification so these were also available. In promise of a grapnel for help with the study addition to the species used for identification, of water plants. She also offered to look into material was available from similar species the possibility of MapMate training sessions for comparison. It is hoped the attendees if members required these. We were also finished the day more confident in their pleased to welcome a young student from identification of common species. France who was here to gather information on Clare and Mark Kitchen Groups studying wildlife on the Wetlands. Helena Crouch said a few words Members’ Photos and Talks on some of the interesting plant species which Saturday 19th March 2011 had been found during 2010. Steve spoke on Twelve members met at the Lifelong the project involved with the reintroduction of Learning Centre for an informal morning of Sium and also gave details of the hoped for talks about botanical projects and work that establishment of a recording group for the they have been involved with. Helena Crouch Avalon Marshes. Anne Cole gave a financial gave a beautifully illustrated talk about report and distributed a balance sheet which exciting botanical finds that members have showed a balance of £1,126.79 in hand on made in our Somerset recording area in the 14th December 2010. Total income for 2010 last year. Notable amongst these were three was £488 and total expenditure £108.44. We species new to Somerset – Membranous now have 60 members. Liz McDonnell said Nettle (Urtica membranacea) found in the that for various reasons it had been proposed centre of Nailsea, Small Goosegrass (Galium that we should have a new Logo and members murale) found as a pavement weed of the were asked to submit designs for this. Royal Crescent in Bath and Tender Brake Christine Loudon spoke about developments (Pteris tremula), also from the Royal on the Group’s website. Crescent, Bath. Amongst other species, The ‘bring and share’ lunch was enjoyed Helena showed photos of Field Fleawort next, followed by the raffle with prizes (Tephroseris integrifolia) one of Somerset’s donated by those present and finally a rarest plants. A tiny population of only two fiendishly difficult quiz devised by Steve with plants is found in just one site in Kilmington, VC6 competing against VC5. The latter won which is VC6, but in administrative Wiltshire. by a nose.

1 Chris Billinghurst gave a presentation on aerial leaves of the mature summer plants. the botanical work undertaken in 2009 with The boardwalk, constructed a few years ago members of the SRPG and Somerset Botany from recycled black plastic was well used and Group. They surveyed the fields, ditches and taking on an organic undulating shape of its rhynes of Godney Farm as part of the SWT own. It looked rather Japanese as it snaked Brue Valley habitat survey. This is a working through the winter reeds. dairy farm owned and run by Mr & Mrs Liz McDonnell Churches. Although, as would be expected from a large dairy farm, most of the fields had Hutton Wood little botanical interest, the ditches and rhynes Saturday 16th April 2011 had been managed very sympathetically and On a fine day, sixteen members and guests many were rich in botanical species. Five met at Hill for the first walk of the ditches adjacent to the River Sheppy in the season. Our challenge for the day was to find north-east of the farm contained Rootless Purple Gromwell (Lithospermum Duckweed (Wolffia arrhiza), a JNCC purpureocaeruleum) in three 1km squares, vulnerable species; and one of Helena’s which involved walking through six 1km photographs showed Wolffia reproducing by squares! Setting off along the lane to Upper budding. Another vulnerable species, Marsh Canada, we found several Twayblades Stitchwort (Stellaria palustris), was found in (Neottia ovata) on shady banks. A field two sites close to ditches in the south-west of carpeted with Daisies was a stunning sight. the farm. On the track to the wood, a single plant of Steve gave a talk on the "Conservation of Cut-leaved Dead-nettle (Lamium hybridum) Water Parsnip in Somerset". This BAP plant was discovered. This species has been has declined over the past ten years in the infrequently recorded recently, so it was an county. The talk included information on the excellent record and we were able to compare distribution, conservation and ecology of the it with Red Dead-nettle (Lamium purpureum) plant. The SRPG have been involved with nearby. monitoring the plant for 10 years. Steve gave A prominent patch of Lithospermum some information on the ongoing purpureocaeruleum was admired at the reintroduction programme in the Brue valley. entrance to the wood. Beside the woodland The need for ongoing conservation was path, more Twayblades were seen, together highlighted by details of the very recent with seven Greater Butterfly-orchids damage to a large population at a site near (Platanthera chlorantha). Sadly we failed to Westonzolyand, This was caused by find Lithospermum purpureocaeruleum at a unsympathetic management of ditches. former site on the south side of the wood, but Christine Loudon told us about her all appreciated the picturesque Bluebells, continuing to work on the development of the Wood Spurge (Euphorbia amygdaloides) and SRPG website. She has done a great deal of other woodland flowers. work on the new design; examples of the Most of the party adventurously descended improved layout were shown to the members. the steep north side of the hill to search for The web pages are an important way of Lithospermum purpureocaeruleum at another presenting the work of the SRPG to the known site. Beside the path we were general public and members. Christine was distracted by a very strange aberrant Bluebell keen to ensure the pages presented a friendly (Hyacinthoides non-scripta forma bracteata), image of the SRPG. which has floral bracts up to 10cm long. A After lunch we took advantage of the good number of scattered shoots of warm sunny weather and walked along the Lithospermum purpureocaeruleum were Discovery Trail boardwalk at the western end found on the rocky wooded hillside, the site of Shapwick Heath, where Greater Water- spanning the boundary of two 1km squares, parsnip was introduced in May 2009. Steve so the re-ascent of the hillside was all showed us two plants, one of which was a worthwhile and we had completed our small plant completely free and floating, the challenge. other, apparently well rooted, which had very Returning along the lane to , dissected underwater leaves, very unlike the we nobly recorded in a fourth 1km square,

2 inspired by the fact that the only record on history and wildlife interest. The reserve MapMate for this square was a Petunia! We comprises a rich and varied mixture of recorded 94 species: no Petunias, but we (mainly somewhat calcareous) grassland, finished with a splendid plant of White scrub and woodland. Our total count of 217 Comfrey (Symphytum orientale) in the car taxa – not all flowering, of course – could park. have left the beginners in the group Helena Crouch wondering what had hit them. Highlights of the day, other than the excellent company, The Quants / Buckland Wood included some fine specimens of ‘false oxlip’ Saturday 7th May 2011 (Primula vulgaris x veris); two rather grand This was a joint field meeting with the Wild Service-trees (Sorbus torminalis); an Somerset Archaeological and Natural History area of more acidic grassland supporting Pale Society. There was a good turn-out, with Sedge (Carex pallescens) and Hairy Lady’s- around 15 people joining in for at least part of mantle (Alchemilla filicaulis subsp. vestita), the day. (There were too many to attempt an plus areas of short turf with flowering Flea exact count.) It was a rather mixed day Sedge (Carex pulicaris); and in woodland weather-wise, with warm sunshine and an about half a dozen scattered plants of Broad- occasional sharp shower. The visit had been leaved Helleborine (Epipactis helleborine). billed as an opportunity to do some general Under Keith Gould’s guidance, a patch of botanical recording in the Butterfly wet woodland was searched for Marsh Conservation nature reserve (also an SSSI), Helleborine (Epipactis palustris). We located and a chance for beginners to see a good some wooden stakes that evidently ‘marked range of ‘spring flowers’. But spring had the spot’, but sadly no sign of the helleborine already sprung… which, according to Keith, hasn’t been seen It was, as you’ll remember, one of the here for some years. We did, however, see warmest Aprils on record – the mean Common Rock-rose (Helianthemum temperature almost 4° C above the 1971-2000 nummularium) and Horseshoe Vetch average – and temperatures in February and (Hippocrepis comosa) – both species March had been above average too. The introduced for their value as butterfly food- unprecedented cold of December 2010 (5° C plants and seemingly holding their own in the below average) was already a distant memory, small area into which they were originally and many spring-flowering plants were planted. And, to everyone’s delight, Keith coming into flower two to three weeks earlier and Eileen Gould tracked down a newly- than last year. Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non- emerged Duke of Burgundy (Hamearis scripta), for example, was flowering in the lucina), a scarce and extremely local butterfly Taunton area before the end of March; while which occurs here at the western edge of its hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), once again range in Britain – and a species for which this belying its alternative English name of ‘May’, reserve is rightly famous. Camera shutters was first seen in flower as early as 6th April. clicked madly as the butterfly obligingly kept Walter Watson, who recorded first flowering still for us. dates in Somerset back in the 1920s and This proved to be a super day, and a 1930s, would have been flabbergasted: successful joint meeting with SANHS which species that he would have expected to start introduced several new people to the flowering in the week leading up to this field pleasures of botanising – as well as a few meeting had in fact begun to bloom, on botanists to the pleasures of butterfly- average, almost five weeks earlier. So, to live watching. up to its billing, our meeting should really Simon Leach have been held in the first week of April. Never mind, we revelled in the opportunity Purn Hill to see a much wider range of species in flower Thursday 12th May 2011 than most of us would have anticipated. Purn Hill is a small promontory projecting Keith Gould (Butterfly Conservation and southward from the Mendip ridge; it is an SANHS member) knows this site well, and SSSI and an reserve, gave us an excellent brief introduction to its home to three Nationally Rare plant species.

3 On a fine day, this midweek meeting attracted Environment Agency. At the end of the walk, twelve members and two angelic dogs. the discovery of Horned Pondweed We ascended through woodland on the (Zannichellia palustris) and Small Pondweed east side of the hill, soon reaching the rich (Potamogeton berchtoldii) was eclipsed by limestone grassland of the ridge. Most of the the leader’s sudden disappearance down an rarer species grow on the steep rocky W- invisible concrete-edged hole in the ground facing side. Several patches of White Rock- which fortunately caused only a dramatic rose (Helianthemum apenninum) were soon bruise – a painful end to what was otherwise a found. This pretty plant is Vulnerable and brilliant day. Altogether, records were Nationally Rare, found only on Brean Down updated for eight Rare Plant Register taxa. and Purn Hill in Somerset and on Berry Head Helena Crouch in South Devon. Some splendid examples of the hybrid H. x sulphureum were seen, with Kingston St Mary / Gadd’s Bottom pale yellow flowers midway between the Sunday 22nd May 2011 parents: White Rockrose and Common I often joke that botanists walk so slowly that Rockrose (Helianthemum nummularium). it can take over an hour to leave the car park. Another target for the day was Bromus On this occasion the first species we were hordeaceus subsp. ferronii which was soon searching for was previously found in the car found on the steep rocky W-facing slope. This park. In 1998 Paul Green recorded Mossy surprisingly distinctive grass is short, with Stonecrop (Crassula tillaea) in the church- dense erect panicles. Purn Hill is the only yard of Kingston St Mary. However, after recent site in Somerset, although it was also looking under cars and getting down on our formerly recorded on Brean Down. There hands and knees we failed to find this species. had been no records for Purn Hill since 1983 Leaving the car park (after only 30 minutes) so this was a significant find. Another rare we walked up Church Lane, here we grass found on the rocky W-facing slope was discovered a plant that we could not name, Somerset Hair-grass (Koeleria vallesiana). In this mystery plant had naturalised from a local Britain, this Vulnerable, Nationally Rare garden, the owner of a local property told us species is restricted to a small area of the the plant had been in his garden for many western Mendips. It is distinguished from the years, however he did not know what it was more common Crested Hair-grass (Koeleria called. Later investigations by Helena Crouch macrantha) by its fibrous swollen culm-bases. (with the help of British Museum) confirmed Honewort () was also seen this silver leaved plant to be Hieracium on the rocky W-facing slope. This Nationally lanatum, a new species for Somerset. A little Rare species is restricted to the western further up the lane the pale pink flowers of Mendips in Somerset, the (vc34, Common Ramping-fumitory (Fumaria not Somerset) and the Berry Head area of muralis) were found, this species was Devon. We were also pleased to find scrambling through the hedgerow. On leaving Euphrasia tetraquetra and about thirty plants the village a search was made of arable fields. of Pale St John’s-wort (Hypericum There are old records of Tall Ramping- montanum) which is Near Threatened. fumitory (Fumaria bastardii); however most A single plant of Musk Stork’s-bill of the fumitories we examined proved to be (Erodium moschatum) was an exciting find. either Common Ramping-fumitory or This species has only a few sites in Somerset Common Fumitory (Fumaria muralis). and was last recorded on Purn Hill in 1996, Sitting on a sunny bank in Gadd’s Bottom also only a single plant. It has been known we had our lunch. This is Crown Estate land, there since 1888. We searched in vain for later we came across an ivy-covered sign White Horehound (Marrubium vulgare), last saying “No Picnicking”! The main target for recorded here in 1985, then descended. the meeting was to monitor a small In the roadside rhyne, large patches of population of Annual Knawel (Scleranthus Floating Pennywort (Hydrocotyle annuus). After some searching, this rare ranunculoides) were observed. This invasive species was found growing on thin soils just alien was first seen here in 2007 and has so off the track. This site also supported a few far resisted attempted eradication by the plants of Subterranean Clover (Trifolium

4 subterraneum). On leaving Gadd’s Bottom 10km record, and Alsike Clover (Trifolium we walked along Volis Hill; by Volis hybridum) was abundant. There was much Cottages we were pleased to find Broad- discussion over lunch about whether these leaved Leek (Allium nigrum). This plant has introduced plants should be entered onto our been known in the vicinity for many years, MapMate database. From here we walked but was a new plant for many of the group. along Wrington Hill and then returned to the We returned to the church car park and, once village down the wooded track of Bullhouse most of the cars had departed, I again Lane. This had a surprisingly poor flora, as it searched the car park for the Mossy Stonecrop was heavily used as a bridle path and had but still no luck, possibly the plant had rather degraded edges. Returning along the succumbed to a dry spring or maybe the car village road, we found a clump of Flattened park has been resurfaced. I will have to return Meadow-grass (Poa compressa) growing at next spring to search again. the base of a garden wall. An arable field yielded Black-grass (Alopecurus Steve Parker myosuroides), Wild Oat (Avena fatua), Fig- leaved Goosefoot (Chenopodium ficifolium) Barley Wood, Wrington and Great Brome (Anisantha diandra). We Sunday 19th June 2011 returned to the Walled Garden café at the end Thirteen members met in the car park of The of the afternoon for pots of tea and cake in the Walled Garden, a restored Victorian kitchen garden. garden and café to the east of Wrington Liz McDonnell village. We walked up to the road and then eastwards along Long Lane to the bridleway Minehead Golf Course that runs up the east side of Prestow Wood. Saturday 25th June 2011 The grassy verges of the track were species- Steam train trips are always very popular with rich with a calcicolous flora including Upright SRPG members so once again we boarded the Brome (Bromopsis erecta), Glaucous Sedge train for the trip from Bishops Lydeard to (Carex flacca), Common Rockrose Minehead. Arriving at the station we walked (Helianthemum nummularium), Lady’s- quickly (a very difficult thing for botanists) mantle (Alchemilla filicaulis subsp. vestita) along the sea front towards Butlins Holiday and Field Scabious (Knautia arvensis). camp and towards the beach and sand dunes. Whorled Mint (Mentha x verticillata) was Once in the targeted 1km square, plant found in the damp edge of the track. This is a recording began. In the mown grass at the new 10km record, but it is probably under- side of the road a large number of plants of recorded. The adjacent scrubby edges to the Sea Fern-grass (Catapodium marinum) were wood had Spurge-laurel (Daphne laureola), found. Nearby the holiday camp or the golf Wood Spurge (Euphorbia amygdaloides), club had set aside a small wild flower area* - Bearded Couch (Elymus caninus), Wild here we found Greek Dock (Rumex cristatus) Madder (Rubia peregrina) and several large which has been known in the Minehead area healthy plants of Common Gromwell since 1942 (see Atlas Flora of Somerset). (Lithospermum officinale) with their Goat's-rue (Galega officinalis) was also found distinctive hard white stony fruits. We had in the wild flower area this has also been lunch beside the footpath in a colourful field known on this site for many decades. On the at the north end of Prestow wood. Oxeye top of the beach a large patch of Lyme-grass Daisies (Leucanthemum vulgare) were so (Leymus arenarius) was seen. This large grass abundant that the field appeared white in the has a very limited distribution in VC5, known distance. The field had obviously been re- only at this site and Steart Island. seeded with a wild-flower mixture, as some of Following lunch on the beach we started the species were very tall and vigorous - Red recording along the narrow dune ridge Clover (Trifolium pratense ) in particular - or between the beach and Minehead golf course. not usually found in this area, such as This area is very rich in RPR plants, the Sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia). The Bird’s- SRPG have visited the site a few times. Our foot Trefoil was the introduced subspecies target for the day was to monitor the Sand Lotus corniculatus subsp. sativus, also a new Catchfly (Silene conica). This rare species has

5 been known on this site since at least 1882 Alsike Clover (Trifolium hybridum), Chicory when a specimen was collected by E S (Cichorium intybus) and a single fruiting Marshall (see herbarium sheet Greater Butterfly-orchid (Platanthera http://herbariaunited.org/specimen/202172/) chlorantha). In 1905 Marshall described the plant as Crossing a green lane, the path continued abundant on Minehead Warren; on this trip along the edge of a field which has been we only found a few plants and this after a grassland for a few years. Clumps of Lucerne long search. Also recorded on the day were a (Medicago sativa subsp. sativa) lined the number of tiny clovers including Knotted broad margin of the field, whilst Grass Clover (Trifolium striatum) and Rough Vetchling (Lathyrus nissolia) was seen in Clover (T. scabrum) together with eight other abundance. Great excitement accompanied clover species. A small patch of Sea Sandwort the discovery of Slender Tare (Vicia (Honckenya peploides) was discovered, it was parviflora) at the edge of the grassland, with not until entering this record on to Mapmate purple-blue flowers and more than four seeds that I discovered this was the first record for per pod; we later found this Vulnerable, this area since 1971. Recording over, we Nationally Scarce species in abundance in this hurried to catch the train from Dunster field. A single Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) station. was found at the edge of the field and further Steve Parker plants of Euphorbia exigua. We found this * This area was set up by Exmoor Natural species in every field we explored. History Society and managed by them as a Despite having progressed through only Wild Flower Walk from 1987-1994. The land three fields, lunchtime was declared when a was leased to Minehead Town Council from convenient bench was reached! Refreshed, Butlins but when the lease ran out renewal we entered another grassland field and a new was refused. It was a popular circular walk 1km square. A splendid stand of over a and an illustrated leaflet was issued. – Editor. hundred Pyramidal Orchids (Anacamptis pyramidalis) was admired. Kickxia spuria Lytes Cary Manor Estate and Broad-leaved Spurge (Euphorbia Sunday 10th July 2011 platyphyllos) were found on the trodden path, This walk exceeded the leader’s expectations suggesting that this was formerly an arable in terms of the number of exciting and Rare field. The west part of this field is a newly Plant Register species encountered! Thirteen sown pasture: some astonishingly large Dwarf members met on a fine day to explore a small Spurge plants were found here. part of the estate of Lytes Cary Manor on Entering a wheat field with broad margins, permissive paths (mostly!) We set off we were greeted by a fantastic stand of through pasture which looked uninteresting Euphorbia platyphyllos, later found all along but contained a good number of grass species, the margin of this field. Even more exciting including Meadow Barley (Hordeum was the discovery of Spreading Hedge- secalinum), Yellow Oat-grass (Trisetum parsley (Torilis arvensis), an Endangered, flavescens) and Crested Dog’s-tail Nationally Scarce, UKBAP species; we saw (Cynosurus cristatus). A tall stand of Stone hundreds of plants all the way around the Parsley (Sison amomum) was admired. We field! Euphorbia exigua, Kickxia spuria and encounted this species several times; in fact Kickxia elatine were all found in this field. we saw ten different umbellifers during the At the NE corner, we admired a stand of day. Elecampane (Inula helenium). Perhaps the Entering the first arable field (under star plant of the day was the Nationally wheat), we immediately found Dwarf Spurge Scarce Blue Pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis (Euphorbia exigua), Round-leaved Fluellen subsp foemina); altogether we saw five tiny (Kickxia spuria) and Sharp-leaved Fluellen plants. With a lens, it was possible to see the (Kickxia elatine), as well as commoner sparse hairs on petal margins: petals of scarlet weeds, including Field Pansy (Viola flowers have a dense fringe of hairs. Exciting arvensis), Fool’s Parsley (Aethusa cynapium) discoveries continued: we found a few and Black-grass (Alopecurus myosuroides). hundred spikes of the Vulnerable Field Garlic Along the broad headland were clumps of (Allium oleraceum), a small patch of Corn

6 Parsley (Petroselinum segetum) and several widely distributed across the Somerset Levels clumps of Yellow Vetchling (Lathyrus and we came across a large stand of this plant aphaca) which is Vulnerable and Nationally in the drove side ditch. However, recent Scarce. Five RPR species in one field! research indicates that the Bolboschoenus in Returning to the manor, a stiff blue fescue inland parts of the UK may not be B. was noticed along the edge of a wheat field. maritimus but the European species This was later determined as Hard Fescue Bolboschoenus laticarpus, with this in mind (Festuca brevipila), an introduced species, we collected samples and these have been perhaps included in a seed mix for the field sent off for determination. We await the margin. A small dried-out pond added a few results of this work. (See following ‘Plant more species, including Pink water-speedwell Notes’ – Ed.) (Veronica catenata) and Common Water- Steve Parker starwort (Callitriche stagnalis). Knotted Hedge-parsley (Torilis nodosa) grew Black Down alongside the driveway, but received only a Sunday 7th August 2011 cursory glance as tea in the courtyard The highest hill in the Mendips, Black Down beckoned! We explored only a small part of is glorious on a fine day but not a good place the estate and have been invited to visit again. to be in rain. The forecast for the day was Helena Crouch awful so it was fantastic that twelve members turned up to seek Lesser Skullcap (Scutellaria Northmoor SSSI minor), Bog Asphodel (Narthecium Saturday 23rd July 2011 ossifragum), Heath Rush (Juncus squarrosus) One of the biggest problems in organising a and Hare’s-tail Cottongrass (Eriophorum field meeting is trying to find a large enough vaginatum) on the north side of the hill. All parking area. To overcome this problem the four species had been recorded here for the members of the SRPG group met at the Atlas Flora of Somerset; none had been Athelney Monument lay-by and then travelled recorded here since. in a small convoy to Middle Moor Drove. We ascended gently from Burrington This is part of North Moor Site of Special Combe with several stops to admire the view. Scientific Interest, in this area of the Levels Along the rides, many clumps of the most of the fields have been improved by American alien Slender Rush (Juncus tenuis) agriculture and are species poor but the were seen but sadly no Heath Rush (J. ditches and rhynes are more interesting, squarrosus). Black Down is an anticline, its supporting a good range of aquatic plants. A summit an outcrop of Old Red Sandstone, good selection of water plants were recorded flanked by . Along including Water-plantain (Alisma plantago- the north edge we reached a small patch of aquatica), Cyperus Sedge (Carex pseudo- calcareous grassland where Fairy-flax (Linum cyperus), Lesser Water-parsnip (Berula catharticum), Bird’s-foot-trefoil (Lotus erecta) and Water Dock (Rumex corniculatus), Glaucous Sedge (Carex flacca) hydrolapathum), these are species that are and Salad Burnet (Poterium sanguisorba common on the Levels. It was with great subsp. sanguisorba) made a surprise pleasure we found one of the most attractive appearance. Despite the forecast, it was fine plants of the Levels the Flowering-rush all morning and lunch was enjoyed in a (Butomus umbellatus). delightful glade with Silver-washed We did not find many submerged aquatic Fritillaries floating overhead. species but one of note was Nuttall's Heading up the west edge of Black Down Waterweed (Elodea nuttallii). A non-native we found the first of our target species, Lesser species which is now common across most of Skullcap (Scutellaria minor), on both sides of the area, it is so frequently found that it is the path. Tragically the rain began just as we rather hard to believe that it was only found in reached a small pond, its surface covered with the wild in Britain in 1966, with the first Bog Pondweed (Potamogeton polygonifolius). Somerset record in 1976. If you look at the An adjacent mire looked promising and “Atlas Flora of Somerset” you will see that indeed we found abundant Marsh Violet Sea Club-rush (Bolboschoenus maritimus) is (Viola palustris subsp. palustris) and a tiny

7 patch of Bog Pimpernel (Anagallis tenella) (Nuphar lutea). Liz pointed out the Alder which were good records. As rain became Tongue Gall looking like a little red tongue torrential, shelter was found under trees, poking out from alder cones. together with a lot more Lesser Skullcap. After lunch we took the footpath around Half the party prudently departed, while a Orchardleigh golf course, where Rumex x stalwart band headed out onto Black Down. pratensis (R. crispus x obtusifolius) was We made a short diversion uphill to check found, continuing to the picturesque village of on Bristle Bent (Agrostis curtisii), found here Lullington with its village green and well. (new to VC6) by Liz McDonnell in 2008. The churchyard yielded many species Four large clumps and several young plants including Flowering Currant (Ribes were seen so it seems to be increasing. sanguineum) growing on the wall with Long- Determined to continue the search for headed Poppy (Papaver lecoqii). Returning Eriophorum vaginatum and Narthecium along the lane to the Mill House five fruiting ossifragum on the north side of the hill, six plants of Spiked Star-of-Bethlehem brave explorers headed into the bracken, (Ornithogalum pyrenaicum) were spotted, a negotiating Molinia tussocks to reach a group new tetrad for this Nationally Scarce species. of willows. These appeared to correspond to Altogether we recorded the grand total of 223 spring heads on the map, which seemed a species in this 1km square. likely spot, but alas the mission was Crossing the footbridge and re-entering unsuccessful. Six drenched botanists headed our first square, the hedgerows were yellow back for the promised ice cream, sensible and red with the fruits of Cherry-plum members opting for a hot drink instead. (Prunus cerasifera). A couple we met Helena Crouch gathering Cherry-plums joined us for our return walk along part of the Macmillan Way. Beckington and Lullington A single plant of Corn Parsley (Petroselinum Saturday 13th August 2011 segetum) was seen surviving on the edge of a Nine members met at Beckington Village set aside field which was being cut as we Hall on a fine August day. We planned to passed. Ribbed Melilot (Melilotus officinalis) record in two 1km squares. This meant a and a large patch of Shaggy Soldier short brisk walk to start recording, whereupon (Galinsoga quadriradiata) were admired, we ‘lost’ two members almost immediately, both new species for the 10km square. We busy chatting! Reunited, we began our recorded 185 species in the Beckington recording down a busy, narrow lane. On the square, finishing with a detour to see the plant verge one plant of Buckwheat (Fagopyrum of the day: White Mullein (Verbascum esculentum) was found and later three plants lychnitis). The site for this plant is now of Dwarf Mallow (Malva neglecta). Across mown so at first we could only find two small the field by the river we could see swathes of rosettes of leaves pressed into the grass; bright yellow Broad-leaved Ragwort (Senecio however two more dead and fruiting spikes fluviatilis). The footpath led us past pheasant were found in the longer grass away from the pens, already stocked with poults and cared road. This Nationally Scarce species was first for by a poetic keeper who had a ‘Polite noted here in 1791 so it is holding its own. Notice’ on each stile:- Maybe next year we will see a flower? Gill Read “A kindly walker you may be, Please take my pheasants seriously, Clevedon coast Of this notice please take heed, rd Keep your dogs upon a lead, Saturday 3 September 2011 Then we all may live happily.” This meeting was well attended with 18 people counted at the start of the walk; At the end of the first square, we crossed although by the end, it was a straggly group the River Frome and picnicked on the and lamentably I didn't count them all back riverbank. In the river was a tall stand of (though I suspect no-one is still out there). Common Club-rush (Schoenoplectus We started from the base of Wain's Hill and lacustris), which some members rarely see, found White Ramping-fumitory (Fumaria and the large leaves of Yellow Water-lily capreolata) still present near the sluice gates

8 and Ivy Broomrape (Orobanche hederae) at locked gate and barbed wire. the roadside. Despite the high tide we could Notwithstanding this deception, everyone not resist a quick look on the beach here. seemed to have an enjoyable day. On the There was Babington’s Orache (Atriplex return, several made the pilgrimage around glabriuscula) and Common Sea-lavender the base of Wain's Hill to look at the ancient (Limonium vulgare) at the top of the salt specimen of Tree Medick (Medicago marsh. With the help of Fred Rumsey and arborea), known here since 1973. One Mark Kitchen we identified our first member acquired a spectacular Eyed Hawk- Salicornia species of the day: Common moth larva hitching a ride on their clothing at Glasswort (Salicornia europaea). some point during this process. Finally Libby We made our way round the bay, finding Houston showed us yet another exciting an increasing selection of salt marsh species potential new Sorbus species on the cliff top including Distant Sedge (Carex distans) of nearby Poet's Walk. and Long-bracted Sedge (C. extensa) in the John Martin upper parts of the marsh. We looked at the couches in some detail: most was Sea Couch Hawkridge Reservoir (Elytrigia atherica), with Common Couch (E. Saturday 24th September 2011 repens) present more locally and at least one The group was welcomed to Hawkridge small patch of their hybrid E. x drucei. Reservoir by Ellen McDouall, Wessex Water Beyond Gullhouse Point and into ecologist and SRPG member. Ellen gave a Woodspring Bay the flat grazed section of brief introduction to the reservoir and gave us marsh above the lower sea defences proved some simple rules that had to be followed interesting, with much Sea Clover (Trifolium while on site. On many meetings we have to squamosum) and Narrow-leaved Bird’s-foot- work hard to find the target species. This was trefoil (Lotus tenuis) along with Hard-grass not the case on this meeting: as soon as we (Parapholis strigosa) and Parsley Water- walked on to site we found Round-fruited dropwort (Oenanthe lachenalii). Two plants Rush (Juncus compressus), this was the first of Corn Parsley (Petroselinum segetum) were target species. We collected data for the BSBI spotted at the edge of the concrete track. Threatened Plants Project; this is a five year Further scrutiny of Salicornia here revealed project looking at species that have undergone the Long-spiked Glasswort (S. a rapid decline. Our second target species dolichostachya) as well as the less distinctive Orange Foxtail (Alopecurus aequalis) was Yellow Glasswort (S. fragilis) and more S. growing with the Juncus. Having carried out europaea. Some of the tidal pool edges had this data gathering we started recording other stands of Bolboschoenus; subsequent plant species around the banks of the examination of fruits showed it to be Sea reservoir. The most conspicuous plant was the Clubrush (B. maritima) rather than the “new” bright green mat of New Zealand Pigmyweed B. laticarpus. A small clump of the (Crassula helmsii). This invasive alien plant apparently increasing Sea Rush (Juncus is now to be found at nearly all Reservoirs maritimus) was another good find. The most and many small ponds in the county. It was spectacular plant of the day had to be the unclear if this alien species was having a beautiful stands of Sea Wormwood detrimental effect on the two target species (Artemisia maritima) at what must be one of but it seemed it must be outperforming some its best sites in VC6. native species. Despite the good range of salt-marsh Just before lunch we crossed the bridge to species, many of them new 1km square the north side of the reservoir. Again we records and several of them scarce, we were monitored the same target species. With water unable to find the target Sea Barley (Hordeum levels very low we were able to walk along marinum). The leader confessed that he had the entire north shore. A large ragwort was never actually seen the plant here and had in seen and following some discussion it was fact assembled everyone under false thought to be the hybrid Senecio x ostenfeldii pretences, although he had it on good (S. jacobea x aquaticus). A specimen was sent authority that the plant was present in quantity to the BSBI referee and he confirmed the a little further along the coast, beyond the determination. The last time this plant was

9 seen in Somerset was 1918 at Tarr Steps, and the return to Crewkerne took us along an Hawkridge by W Watson. To cross back over ancient track, first under a tunnel of Hazel, the Reservoir we were allowed to cross the then along an avenue of Hornbeams. top of the dam. Here the eagle eyes of Ian A surprising find was a large specimen of Green spotted a small population of Northern Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glypto- Yellow-cress Rorippa islandica. A new stroboides), presumably planted, on the path species for the site, this species first found in alongside the cemetery. A Maidenhair-tree Somerset (and England) in 2001 has now (Ginkgo biloba) was admired within the been found at most of the reservoirs in the cemetery and the question of whether to county, probably spread by birds or record planted trees arose – and was once fishermen! This was a really enjoyable more unresolved! meeting with some exciting finds. Returning into town along Mount Pleasant, Steve Parker we recorded Oregon-grape (Mahonia aquifolia) and Druce’s Crane’s-bill Crewkerne (Geranium oxonianum) on a bank, then found Saturday 8th October 2011 a veritable garden along the pavement, On a fine autumn day, five members met in recording Californian Poppy (Eschscholzia the centre of Crewkerne for the last walk of californica), Garden Lavander (Lavandula the year. Obviously it took a while to leave angustifolia) and a clump of a stiff blue the car park! First we paid homage to the fescue. This keyed out neatly as Hard Fescue Crewkerne Lucombe Oak, believed to be 200 (Festuca brevipila), only recorded once years old, noting that it had currant galls. A before in VC5. A large plant of Annual Wall- Conyza caused a temporary blockage on the rocket (Diplotaxis muralis) was admired pavement; it was later identified as Bilbao before the walk ended with afternoon tea in Fleabane (now C. floribunda), only the town. second record for VC5. Nearby were self- Helena Crouch sown plants of Thunberg’s Barberry (Berberis thunbergii), whilst just beyond the car park, a PLANT NOTES tomato growing on the pavement caused some amusement. Bolboschoenus laticarpus Following a footpath through an industrial Within the last couple of years it has been estate, we found Common Polypody realised that in Britain we have more than one (Polypodium vulgare) and Black Spleenwort species of Bolboschoenus, following (Asplenium adiantum-nigrum ) on an old wall. publication of a paper by Zdenka Hroudová et Ten different ferns were seen altogether al. in 2007. A second species, Bolboschoenus during the day. The alien theme continued, laticarpus, is now known to occur in with Procumbent Yellow-sorrel (Oxalis Somerset and records have been made in both corniculata), Wallflower (Erysimum cheiri), vice-counties this year. Specimens in major Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) and Mind-your- herbaria are being examined: so far the own-business (Soleirolia soleirolii) recorded earliest Somerset specimens thought to be B. along Easthams Road. As we left the town, laticarpus are from Berrow (vc6) and from a heading east, we reached a series of ditch near Long Load (vc5), collected in 1881 abandoned pastures and had lunch in a field and 1891 respectively, by R.P. Murray. with far-reaching views to the south. Records for Scirpus maritimus at both of A wet flush in one of the meadows these sites are included in Murray’s Flora of provided some interest, with Sharp-flowered Somerset (1896). Rush (Juncus acutiflorus), Hard Rush (J. Bolboschoenus laticarpus differs from B. inflexus), Greater Bird’s-foot-trefoil (Lotus maritimus in having an inflorescence pedunculatus) and Hairy Sedge (Carex hirta), comprising usually 2-7 sessile spikelets in a but nothing truly exciting. A steep dry bank central group but also 2-5 rays bearing was similarly disappointing, adding only fascicles of 2-4 spikelets, or rarely single Smooth Hawk’s-beard (Crepis capillaris) and ones. B. maritimus usually has an Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil (Lotus inflorescence comprising only sessile corniculatus). The views were good though spikelets, but may have 1-2 rays bearing

10 single spikelets or a fascicle of 2-4 spikelets. Mackie, VC6. New for Britain. A single plant The arrangement of the inflorescence is thus a was found nearby in 2009 and one in 2011. good, but not definitive, feature for (See Journal of the Hardy Orchid Society 8: 79-83.) identification of B. laticarpus. For Yucca gloriosa var. gloriosa (Spanish- confirmation, a cross-section of the nutlet dagger) – Sand Bay (ST33156527), one large shows that B. laticarpus has a thin exocarp rosette on dunes at N end of bay, John P. and thick mesocarp, whereas B. maritimus has Martin (det. Helena J. Crouch), VC6. a thick exocarp and narrow mesocarp. It is suspected that B. laticarpus will be NEW VICE-COUNTY RECORDS found at the more inland sites at which B. maritimus has been recorded previously, Dryopteris cambrensis (Narrow Male-fern) – particularly on the Levels, but records are Pen Ridge, Stourhead Estate (ST75033279), 5 needed to establish the distributions of the May, one large plant on S side of old two species, formerly mapped as one. So far hedgerow, to E of road, just E of large oak, B. laticarpus has been found this year at West Helena J. Crouch & Fred Rumsey, VC6. Sedgemoor and North Moor in vc5 and at Epipactis leptochila (Narrow-lipped Southlake Moor, Walton Moor and Butleigh Helleborine) – Forches Corner (ST184172), Moor in vc6. This is certainly a species to 15 Aug 1993, a single plant beneath beech watch out for next year. trees next to a telegraph pole marked “22”, on Helena Crouch roadside bank on E side of lane N of Forches Reference (available online) Corner, Keith Gould (conf. Richard Bateman, Hroudová, Z. et al. (2007). Taxonomy, distribution and John Richards and Ian Taylor), VC5. ecology of Bolboschoenus in Europe .Annales Botanici Fennici 44: 81-102. OTHER INTERESTING PLANT RECORDS SOMERSET RECORDS IN 2011

This year there have been many interesting and Abutilon theophrasti (Velvetleaf) –Chew Valley significant records. In particular a good number Lake (ST57946038), 23 Sept, one plant at top of of rare plant records have been updated for the drawdown zone, Helena J. Crouch & Ian P. Rare Plant Register. The list below includes only Green, VC6. First record for Somerset since 1999. species newly discovered and a selection of other Atriplex portulacoides (Sea-purslane) – Sand Bay interesting records; however, in some cases these (ST32956564), 23 Aug, a 2m x 2m patch in are less interesting, and in my opinion less middle of saltmarsh, at edge of small creek, important, than the many excellent records made Helena J. Crouch & Somerset Botany Group, for the RPR. For those, please have faith – they VC6. New site for this locally scarce species. will be published eventually. All records below Berberis wilsoniae (Mrs Wilson’s Barberry) – are for 2011 unless otherwise stated. Sand Bay (ST329659), 4 Jun., one bush in scrub beside steps by toilet block, John P. Martin, VC6. NEW SOMERSET RECORDS Second record for VC6. Compiled by Helena J. Crouch Carex divulsa subsp. leersii (Grey Sedge) – Bolboschoenus laticarpus– see Plant Note. Langridge (ST73596998), 18 Jul., one clump on Hieracium lanatum (Woolly Hawkweed) – S-facing slope, Helena J. Crouch & Fred Rumsey Kingston St Mary (ST22332972), 22 May, a (det. F.J. Rumsey), VC6.A new 10km square for this taxon, now known from only one other site in few plants naturalised on Church Lane, Somerset. Somerset Rare Plants Group, VC5. Centaurea cyanus (Cornflower) – Lower Failand Lemna turionifera (Red Duckweed) – Farm (ST517742, ST518746, ST519746, Barrington Court (ST396182), 6 Apr, brick- ST519747), 12 Jul, abundant in many species-rich lined ornamental pond within the walled weedy field margins on organic farm, John P. garden, Richard V. Lansdown, VC5. First Martin, VC6 and Beer Field, High Ham described in 1975, first recorded in Europe in (ST418306), 25 Jul, single plant in flower in 1986 and first found in Britain in 2007, this cornfield, John Poingdestre, VC6. Only recent species is now known from five vice-counties VC6 records for genuine cornfield Cornflowers, but is possibly overlooked! in both cases growing with other interesting arable Ophrys apifera var. botteronii (Bee Orchid) – weeds. Colutea arborescens (Bladder-senna) – Porlock Warren, 26 Jun 2008, one plant, Simon Weir (SS8647), 4 Oct 2010, by car park, Caroline 11 Giddens, VC5. Second record for VC5 and first Pilkington, VC6. A new 10km square for this since 1975. taxon and fourth record for VC6 and Somerset. Cyclamen repandum (Spring Sowbread) – Last seen in Somerset in 2000 and believed lost Vobster (ST705496), 29 Mar, one plant in shade from the only other recently known site. beneath ash trees behind main gate to diving Polygonum rurivagum (Cornfield Knotgrass) – centre, VC6.Third record for VC6. Combe (ST415287), 31 Jul, about 80 small erect Digitalis lutea (Straw Foxglove) –Leigh woods plants with P. aviculare in corner of arable field (ST558730), 18 Jun, in flower on wall of former to E of lane, John Poingdestre (conf. John R. botanic gardens, John P. Martin, VC6. Second Akeroyd), VC6. Third recent record for VC6 and record for VC6 and third for Somerset. a new site. Dorycnium hirsutum (Canary Clover) – Potamegeton perfoliatus (Perfoliate Pondweed) – Beckington (ST80355205), 8 Aug, four plants in Bath (ST707660), 24 Sept, on the sheltered side cracks at kerb edge of pavement, Helena J. of a bend near where cycle track crosses river, Crouch & Gillian H. Read, VC6. Second record Rob D. Randall, VC6. First record for River for VC6 and Somerset. Avon since 1992 and only second recent record Drosera rotundifolia (Round-leaved Sundew) – for VC6. North Hill, (ST54095115), 27 Sept, several Rorippa islandica (Northern Yellow-cress) – plants in glorious bog near top of field on SW side Hawkridge Reservoir (ST21103643), 24 Sept, of hill, Helena J. Crouch & Fred Rumsey, VC6. seven plants on top of dam wall, Somerset Rare First record for Priddy area since 1861; otherwise Plants Group, VC5. Third site for VC5. now restricted in VC6 to a few sites on the peat Scandix pecten-veneris (Shepherd’s-needle) – moors. Socombe Hill (ST38403790), 10 Jun, thinly Festuca brevipila (Hard Fescue) – Mount scattered amongst Torilis arvensis along S Pleasant, Crewkerne (ST44560989), 8 Oct, one boundary of arable field, John Poingdestre, VC6. stiff-leaved clump on pavement at base of wall, on First record of this Critically Endangered species N side of road, SRPG (det. Helena J. Crouch), in this 10km square since 1959 and only second VC5. Second record for VC5. recent record for VC6, the other being at Cary Fumaria reuteri (Martin’s Ramping-fumitory) – Fitzpaine, where JP reported “infestation Bath (ST722655), June, several plants in proportions” in 2011! vegetable garden in Newbridge Gardens, Wendy Senecio x ostenfeldii (S. jacobaea x aquaticus) – Lambson (conf. Rose Murphy), VC6. Known here Hawkridge Reservoir (ST20523606), 24 Sept, one for last three years. Second record for Somerset plant at edge of reservoir, Somerset Rare Plants and VC6, the only previous record being from Group (det. Crinan Alexander), VC5. Second Bath in 1920. record for VC5 and first record for Somerset since Gazania rigens (Treasureflower) – Minehead 1958. (SS975464), 29 Oct, single plant with three flowers, to seaward of sea-wall in area of John Gibson obituary accreting sand/shingle, Simon J. Leach, VC5. Some members will have already heard that John Second record for VC5 and Somerset. died in June this year. John had been a member of Glebionis segetum (Corn Marigold) – Lower the SRPG for over 10 years but none of us knew Failand Farm (ST51957470), 12 Jul, one plant in much about him, as he was a very private and species-rich weedy field margin on organic farm, modest man. I made some enquiries from Yeovil John P. Martin, VC6. Only recent VC6 record for Religious Society of Friends, as we knew that he a genuine cornfield Corn Marigold, growing with was a Quaker and received a testimony from other interesting arable weeds. someone who got to know him in the last few Lappula squarrosa (Bur Forget-me-not) – months of his illness. He studied languages at Charlton Musgrove (ST73083059), 20 Jul, large university and was destined for a career as a patch in vegetable garden, Helena J. Crouch & teacher, but felt called to join a religious Gillian H. Read, VC6.First record for VC6 since community in Scotland where he stayed until he 1987. was fifty. Returning to Somerset he met and Parentucellia viscosa (Yellow Bartsia) – Yarty married his wife Marjorie and worked as a Moor (ST235164), 30 Aug, three or four plants in postman until retirement. He was very wet area in central part of reserve, Somerset knowledgeable about plants and wildlife and lived Botany Group (det. David Tattersall), a very humble and simple life, giving most of his VC5.Second record for VC5 and first since 1993. money away to good causes. He very kindly Pimpinella major (Greater Burnet-saxifrage) – donated his binocular microscope to the SRPG Walton (ST45233690), 16 Jul, seven plants in last year, which we have used for our flower on verge opposite the entrance to Whitley identification workshops. He will be much Farm and some young plants present, Sharon missed. Liz McDonnell

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