Do you know your Lady’s Bedstraw from your Shining Cranesbill, or what time of year to mow a meadow?

Join the Historic Scotland rangers for a Wildflower Wander in the fields around Blackness Castle and all will be revealed. It’s a great opportunity to find out about our native flora and fauna and enjoy a couple of hours in the fresh air.

Ian Lewis, Countryside Ranger at Historic Scotland said:
‘This time of year it’s lovely to get out and enjoy the Scottish countryside. There’s so much to see whether it’s plants, birds or animals. During our gentle stroll round the fields near Blackness Castle we will have the chance to see all the delightful flowers and grasses that thrive in traditional meadowland and find out how it can best be maintained for wildlife.’

Many of the plants have traditions attached to them and were also used for a variety of practical purposes in times gone by. In the Middle Ages, Lady’s Bedstraw was believed to have made up part of the bedding in the stable where Jesus was born. Its roots were used for a red dye and its petals for giving an extra yellow colour to butter and cheese. Unfortunately, traditional grassland management is becoming increasingly rare, and some meadow plants are vanishing from our countryside.

Blackness Wildflower Wander event takes place at 1.30pm on Sunday 17th June. It is free to take part, but booking is recommended as places are limited. For further details and to reserve a place, call the rangers on 01506 842065.