Common Species
5 species
Photo: British wildflowers collection
Bluebell
Hyacinthoides non-scripta
One of Britain's most beloved wildflowers, bluebells carpet woodland floors in spring with their distinctive violet-blue flowers and sweet scent. Native English bluebells have narrow, tubular bells that droop to one side and cream-colored pollen. They're a protected species and indicator of ancient woodland.
Habitat:
Deciduous woodland, hedgerows, shaded gardens
Garden Tips:
Plant bulbs in autumn in partial shade under trees or shrubs. Prefer moist, well-drained soil rich in leaf mould. Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering. Never dig up wild bluebells—always buy from reputable nurseries.
Conservation Status:
Protected under Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
Best Time to See:
April-May, creating spectacular blue carpets in woodlands
Photo: Wild Way wildflower collection
Primrose
Primula vulgaris
A quintessential British wildflower, primroses herald the arrival of spring with their pale yellow flowers. The name comes from 'prima rosa' meaning 'first rose'. Each flower has five heart-shaped petals with a deeper yellow center. An important early nectar source for bees and butterflies emerging from hibernation.
Habitat:
Woodland edges, hedgerows, grassland, gardens
Garden Tips:
Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Excellent for naturalizing under deciduous trees. Divide clumps after flowering to increase stock. Self-seeds readily in suitable conditions. Pairs beautifully with violets and wood anemones.
Conservation Status:
Common but declining in some areas
Best Time to See:
February-May, one of the earliest spring flowers
Photo: Naturescape wildflower collection
Red Campion
Silene dioica
A striking wildflower with bright pink-red flowers that light up shady spots. Each flower has five deeply notched petals forming a star shape. Red campion is dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female. The flowers are particularly attractive to long-tongued bees and day-flying moths.
Habitat:
Woodland, hedgerows, roadside verges, shaded gardens
Garden Tips:
Thrives in partial shade with moist soil. Excellent for woodland gardens and shady borders. Self-seeds freely but not invasively. Flowers from May to September, providing long-lasting color. Cut back after first flowering to encourage a second flush.
Conservation Status:
Common and widespread
Best Time to See:
May-September, brightening shady woodland edges
Photo: British wildflowers collection
Foxglove
Digitalis purpurea
Tall, elegant spires of tubular purple-pink flowers make foxgloves unmistakable. The flowers have distinctive spotted throats that guide bumblebees inside. A biennial plant that forms a rosette of leaves in the first year and flowers in the second. All parts are highly toxic if ingested but provide vital nectar for long-tongued bumblebees.
Habitat:
Woodland clearings, hedgerows, gardens, disturbed ground
Garden Tips:
Prefers partial shade but tolerates sun. Self-seeds prolifically, creating natural drifts. Allow seed heads to mature for self-sowing. Biennial, so plant over two years for continuous flowering. Excellent vertical accent in borders. Warning: all parts are poisonous—wear gloves when handling.
Conservation Status:
Common and widespread
Best Time to See:
June-September, towering over woodland edges
Photo: Native wildflower seed collection
Wildflower Meadow Mix
Mixed native species
A diverse mix of native wildflowers including ox-eye daisy, field scabious, yellow rattle, bird's-foot trefoil, and many others. Traditional wildflower meadows support hundreds of insect species and have declined by 97% since the 1930s. Creating even a small meadow area in your garden provides vital habitat for pollinators, birds, and small mammals.
Habitat:
Open grassland, meadows, gardens with sunny areas
Garden Tips:
Sow in spring or autumn on poor soil (remove topsoil if necessary). Yellow rattle is key—it parasitizes grass roots, allowing flowers to thrive. Mow once or twice a year after seeds have set. Never use fertilizers. Takes 2-3 years to establish fully. Start small—even 1-2 square meters makes a difference.
Conservation Status:
Meadow habitat critically endangered—97% lost since 1930s
Best Time to See:
June-August for peak flowering, but provides interest March-October
How to Support Native Plants
Choose plants native to your region
Create layers: trees, shrubs, and ground cover
Leave seed heads standing through winter
Avoid double-flowered varieties—they have less nectar
Plant in groups for greater impact
Include plants that flower at different times