Field of Red Campion

Travelling around the East of England you often come across a colourful field that takes your interest. It doesn’t look like any edible crop I know of. Then again crops are grown for all sorts of reasons. These are perhaps just being grown for their seeds. On the other hand there may be a use that goes beyond the wildflower seed industry. Of course these are commonly known as Red Campion and are found in many woodland and hedgerow settings at this time of year. The scientific name is Silene dioica, a member of the Caryopyllaceae or ‘pink’ family.

Silene dioica - Red Campion - Field of Flowers

Dry Spring Takes its Toll – East Anglia UK

Normally I like to take photos that highlight the beauty of the vegetation around me. However, we are experiencing dry conditions that are bordering on the extreme. The trees are now in full leaf and whilst they can draw water from deep down, the surface has become very dry and hard packed. So the next problem, when it does rain it may well just run off and cause flooding rather than soaking into the land.

Gardeners are already being warned of hosepipe bans to come, sooner than later. Not good for the luscious herbaceous borders we all love. Yet, looking at the weather map, Southern Europe and North Africa are getting heavy rainfall. This is what the Met Office thinks.
Leucanthemum vulgar – Oxeye daisy everywhere

Oxeye daisy is now everywhere. It grows in abundance on the roadside verges, river banks, parks and any grassy areas that suit. They prefer a sunny location with well drained soil, and that means they will be at home on any south facing embankment, proliferating at the expense of most other flowers. Still a welcome site that cheers up the green landscape, or brown as it is becoming at the moment.

Leucanthemum vulgare or Oxeye daisy are part of the Asteraceae family with the typical daisy like flower head of white petals with a bright yellow central disc. This disc contains many nectar filled flowers that attract bees, butterflies and many other insects. So, good for the biodiversity, as long as they don’t completely dominate an area.
Mayflower for May Day

May 1st opens with the flower that is often referred to as ‘May Blossom’ or simply, ‘May’. Found extensively in Europe the Common Hawthorn or Crataegus monogyna is part of the Rose family, Rosaceae.

Whilst the Hawthorn can grow into a tree of some 30+ feet, it is often used in hedges and trimmed annually to keep its size and shape. However, when allowed to grow into a row of trees, you get the wall of white blossom that looks so impressive. Hawthorne is good for the ecology providing for birds and insects alike.
Calendula – Pot Marigold a Tenacious Sunny Bloom

Coming across a brightly coloured flower, standing out in a harsh stoney environment does bring a smile. This Calendula or Pot marigold, is a member of the Asteraceae family and has the typical daisy flower head. Native of southern Europe it now cultivated for gardens across the world and has uses other than its obvious ornamental value.

It has uses in the kitchen as parts are edible, such as the petals can be used in salads. It has uses in medicine as an anti-inflammatory and has skin healing properties. Compounds from Calendula can be found in cosmetics too, but can cause an allergic reaction.
Manna Ash – Fraxinus ornus

I came across an unusual tree that in the cold north wind was depositing fluffy chaff. Not recognising it, I used the Seek app to see what it was. Evidently it is called the Manna Ash, or Fraxinus ornus. Obviously the manna refers to the Biblical manna that the Israelis fed on in the wilderness. However, the link I made was from all the white chaff falling on me. Rather, the reason it is called the Manna Ash is more to do with the sweet sticky sap that comes from the bark. Anyway an interesting part of the Ash family.
Saponaria ocymoides – Colourful Rock Garden Plant

Saponaria ocymoides, commonly known as rock soapwort, basil soap-wort or tumbling Ted, has done well this year in the sunny, dry spring. These plants can keep on going for years without either flourishing or dying. Then one year they seem to excel as they find the climate and environment just right. That has happened this year with my Saponaria ocymoides. It has excelled in the sunny dry spring that we have recently experienced.

Saponaria ocymoides: Ideal for Rock Gardens or Gravel Gardens

Its low-growing nature makes it perfect for spreading out to fill in gaps between rocks while providing an colourful display of flowers and a healthy green foliage that look good against any stony ground cover. This perennial is not only hardy but also thrives in well-drained soils, making it a preferred plant for gardeners interested in creating a low-maintenance yet visually stunning landscape.

As we experience a change in the climate we may have to go from the lush green herbaceous borders to a more mediterranean style. Using rock and gravel to cover areas around the garden. Plants like Saponaria ocymoides will fit the bill perfectly for such a garden.

The plant typically blooms from late spring to early summer, showcasing clusters of pink flowers that can attract various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Its striking appearance combined with its ability to thrive in dry conditions makes it an excellent addition to any rock garden.

When selecting the right location for your Saponaria ocymoides, consider the amount of sunlight the area receives. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade, enjoying at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Additionally, ensure the soil is well-draining. While it tolerates poor soils, it does not thrive in overly wet conditions, which can lead to root rot. Amending the soil with sand or gravel can enhance drainage, making it more suitable for this resilient species.

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Saponaria ocymoides: Ideal for Rock Gardens or Gravel Gardens

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