Coltsfoot
(Tussilago farfara)

Description: One of our earliest flowering plants in open areas. Flower resembles that of Dandelion, but Coltsfoot has distinctive, scaly flower stalks.

Habitat: Open, sunny areas such as old fields, roadside.

Height: 10 cm

Flowering: March - April

Dandelion
(Taraxacum officinale)

Description: The bright yellow flower quickly transforms to the familiar fluffy "ball" of seeds which disperse in the slightest breeze. Introduced from Europe, it readily colonizes open, disturbed habitats.

Habitat: Open, disturbed land, especially mowed areas.

Height: 20 cm

Flowering: April - September

Black Mustard
(Brassica nigra)

Description: Flowers have four petals arranged in a cross-shape. Tolerates poor soils, and colonizes fields and disturbed sites. Introduced from Europe.

Habitat: Widespread, especially open areas.

Height: 1 m

Flowering: June

Celandine
(Chelidonium majus)

Description: An introduction from Europe which thrives here in damp sites on the edges of woodland. The hairy stem is brittle and exudes an orange sap if broken.

Habitat: Grows on damp ground, banks, hedgerows and by walls.

Height: 50 cm

Flowering: May - August