The Plant of the day according to old almanacs, is Gorse, Ulex europaeas. 10 things you might not know about this plant:
Gorse is a member of the Pea family.
It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodland, under-grazed grassland, heaths and coastal habitats.
It generally flowers between January and June, but especially in April and May.
Pliny used the plants to collect Gold in streams. They were laid down in the water and would catch gold dust flowing past.
A sprig of gorse is often added to the bride’s wedding bouquet as a symbol of fertility.
These prickly plants are often used as a barrier to keep livestock in their fields, and predators out. Wildlife, including Birds and caterpillars find it a safe haven as well.
You can eat the flowers in salads and make tea from it. The slight almond taste makes them a nice thing to add to Gin. The buds can be eaten whole, rather like capers, but the seeds are toxic. Too many gorse flowers can be bad for you too.
According to folklore, you shouldn't kiss your loved ones when gorse is out of bloom. However, between the various species it’s possible to find it in bloom pretty much year round.
Gorse is the Bach Flower Remedy for people with feelings of hopelessness.
In 2005 a man got stuck in a gorse bush for two days because he’d somehow managed to get 10ft deep into the hedging (the fact he was on his way home from the pub may be a significant factor here!) and had to be rescued by a Helicopter.
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