Top 20 Most Common Plants in United Kingdom

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Top 20 Most Common Plants in United Kingdom

In United Kingdom, you can find European ash, Common hawthorn, Elder, English ivy, Sycamore, and more! There are 20 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.

Most Common Plants

European ash

1. European ash

European ash (Fraxinus excelsior) is a large deciduous tree featured in Norse mythology and Scottish folklore. European ash is native to mainland Europe. This species is susceptible to the disease Ash dieback which is caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. European ash often grows in basic soils on calcareous substrates.

Common hawthorn

2. Common hawthorn

Common hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) is a flowering tree that is actually part of the rose family. It is not unusual in garden settings and arranged as hedges. Examples of famous common hawthorn trees include the apocryphal oldest tree in France, and a well-known hawthorn in England that stood out for flowering three times a year.

Elder

Elder is a malodorous shrub whose berries nevertheless act as an important food source for birds. To humans, except for its flowers and ripen fruits, other parts are poisonous. Ripen fruits can be cooked and made into jams, jellies and chutneys, while flowers could be made into syrups, but it is recommended to be guided by a professional before picking.

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English ivy

English ivy is the most common climber of European forests. It is a perennial woody vine with evergreen, dark, shiny lobed leaves. It utilizes aerial rootlets to attach to the tree bark with exceptional strength, helping the english ivy creep more than 15 m up a tree. Hedera helix also grows as a forest groundcover and is invasive outside its native range.

Sycamore

Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) is a tree native to Europe and Asia. Sycamore is tolerant of wind and coastal exposure. This species is known as the sycamore maple in the United States. Sycamore wood is commercially used to make musical instruments, furniture, joinery, wood flooring and kitchen utensils.

Stinging nettle

6. Stinging nettle

Although the stinging nettle has a variety of uses it is best known for its eponymous sting. It has sharp defensive hairs on its leaves and stems which will release pain-inducing chemicals when touched. Nevertheless, Dorset, England hosts an annual World Nettle Eating Championship, which started with a debate between two farmers over the severity of their nettle infestations. To consume them more safely, stinging nettles must be thoroughly boiled.

Bigleaf hydrangea

7. Bigleaf hydrangea

The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.

Common foxglove

8. Common foxglove

Common foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is a herbaceous flowering plant naturally found in forests, heaths, and mountain grasslands. Common foxglove produces clusters of purple to white tubular flowers, with numerous dark spots on the inner surface. They are very attractive and commonly cultivated for ornamental purposes.

Garden dahlia

9. Garden dahlia

The garden dahlia is a common spring flower that comes in a wide range of colors. The flowers themselves are unscented and attract pollinators, like bees, using only their bright coloration. Dahlia pinnata plants were grown by ancient Aztecs, and it is now the official flower of Mexico. It is genetically related to garden plants like sunflowers and zinnias.

Creeping buttercup

10. Creeping buttercup

While originally used as an ornamental plant around the world, the creeping buttercup is now considered invasive in many places. Distribution usually occurs through the transportation of hay, making control difficult. The creeping buttercup is considered poisonous and can cause skin blistering.

Common yarrow

11. Common yarrow

Common yarrow is a wildflower that has feathery leaves and flowers in white, yellow or pink. In China, the plant is considered to be good luck while for some time in Scotland it was believed to have magical properties. It has been brewed into beer, tea, and liquors, but it has low toxicity. Do not consume in large quantities. Common yarrow's bitter leaves are toxic to pets and horses. Other livestock can eat it, though it gives cow milk an unpleasant flavor.

Common hazel

12. Common hazel

Common hazel (Corylus avellana) is a deciduous shrub species that is cultivated for its edible nuts. Hazelnuts can refer to the nut from any Corylus species, but it most often refers to Corylus avellana. The nuts from common hazel are eaten straight or used in making confectionary. Common hazel is native to Europe and western Asia.

Tansy ragwort

13. Tansy ragwort

Tansy ragwort is a biennial that is classified in many areas of the United States as a noxious weed. The tansy ragwort is poisonous to livestock, pets, and humans. This plant is found in sunny open areas like pastures and meadows. It has bright yellow flowers and grows 61 to 122 cm tall.

Cow parsnip

14. Cow parsnip

Cow parsnip (Heracleum sphondylium) is a species of flowering perennial herb related to parsley and fennel. Its specific epithet, "sphondylium," means "vertebrate," and references its segmented appearance. This species produces extremely large amounts of nectar and thus attracts many bees.

Blackthorn

Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) is a large deciduous shrub species that is also commonly called a sloe. Blackthorn is indigenous to Europe, Asia, and Africa. In Britain, this species is used to make a liquor called sloe gin. In Ireland, its wood is made into walking sticks.

Tomato

Solanum lycopersicum is an annual or perennial herbaceous vine native to Central and South America that produces a large, juicy, edible fruit known as tomato. Today there are over 10000 cultivated varieties. Although tomato is the world’s most popular vegetable, botanically it is a fruit.

English oak

17. English oak

The english oak (*Quercus robur*) is a deciduous tree native to Europe. It is a very long-lived tree; the oldest known specimens have been living for more than a thousand years. It is commonly represented in European mythologies as a symbol of strength, longevity, nobility, morale, and knowledge.

Butterfly bush

18. Butterfly bush

Buddleja davidii, commonly known as butterfly bush, is a fast-growing shrub native to East Asia. This vigorous plant is usually cultivated as an ornamental, due to its extravagant purple inflorescences. It carries the name butterfly bush because its flowers are a valuable source of nutritious nectar for numerous butterfly species.

Ribwort plantain

19. Ribwort plantain

Ribwort plantain grows in a number of different habitats as long as it has enough sunlight. Its leaves have characteristic parallel veins that make it easy to identify. The heads of ribwort plantains get popped off in some common British children's games. Its seeds are critical food sources for songbirds, and its leaves are eaten by rabbits and deer.

Herb robert

20. Herb robert

Herb robert (Geranium robertianum) is a plant species that can be found growing naturally worldwide, including in Europe, Asia, North America, and North Africa. The common name references Robert of Molesme, a Christian saint and herbalist from the 11th century. The herb robert gets one of its nicknames, "Stinking Bob," from the scent that the leaves emit when crushed; it's said to be similar to the smell of burning rubber!

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Europe > United Kingdom

Argyll and Bute

Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon

Bath and North East Somerset

Buckinghamshire

Cheshire West and Chester

Central Bedfordshire

Carmarthenshire

Clackmannanshire

East Dunbartonshire

East Renfrewshire

East Riding of Yorkshire

Gloucestershire

Isle of Anglesey

Kingston upon Thames

Kingston upon Hull

Lisburn and Castlereagh

North East Lincolnshire

Northamptonshire

Newcastle upon Tyne

Redcar and Cleveland

South Lanarkshire

Stockton-on-Tees

Southend-on-Sea

Scottish Borders

South Gloucestershire

Telford and Wrekin

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More Plants in United Kingdom

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Most Common Toxic Plants

The temperate climate of the United Kingdom, with its adequate rainfall and fertile soils, provides a conducive environment for various flora, including toxic plants. Concerns persist over the prevalence of poisonous species such as , , and , thriving in these conditions and posing risks to humans and wildlife.

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Most Common Flowers

United Kingdom's moderate climate and fertile soil create a welcoming environment for native flowers to flourish. Amongst the resplendent blooms, , , and stand out as characteristic local flowers. These flowers add visual beauty to the region and hold symbolic and ecological importance. Trustworthy sources confirm their prominence in the UK's flora.

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Most Common Flowers of Spring

As Spring unfurls across the United Kingdom, the environment awakens, nurturing a kaleidoscope of flora. Among the pioneering blossoms are , symbolizing rebirth, , heralding vibrant colors to gardens, and , an essential beacon for pollinators. Each flower's emergence marks the season’s gaiety and contributes uniquely to the Springtime tapestry.

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Most Common Spring Fruits

In the United Kingdom, Spring breathes life into the land, warming soils and beckoning a chorus of blooming fruit plants. This season marks the harvest of early fruits, embodying the essence of rebirth and renewal. Notably, the tender shoots of emerge, while begin to flourish, and the blossoms of promise future sweetness. Each fruit, a fresh testament to Spring's nurturing touch, holds a cherished spot on the British seasonal table.

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Most Common Fruits

The temperate maritime climate and fertile soils of the United Kingdom create ideal conditions for the cultivation of various local fruit plants. Known for moderate rainfall, mild winters, and warm summers, this environment contributes to the growth of fruit plants such as , , and . These fruit plants are not only integral to the local agriculture but also have deep cultural roots, symbolizing the richness of the UK's horticultural heritage.

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Most Common Trees

The United Kingdom boasts a favorable climate and soil conditions for the growth of native trees. Among the emblematic trees, the , , and stand tall in this territory. These trees hold significant cultural and ecological value in the region. Their presence contributes to the biodiversity and provides habitats for various wildlife species. With their unique features and contributions, these trees have become symbols of the United Kingdom's natural heritage.

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Most Common Weeds

The temperate, moist climate of the United Kingdom provides a fertile breeding ground for a variety of garden weeds. Common culprits like , , and not only proliferate with vigor but also pose significant challenges for gardeners and landscapers aiming to maintain pristine conditions. These weeds represent a small fraction of the resilient flora that constantly invades domestic green spaces, requiring consistent and effective management strategies.

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Most Common Tall Trees

In the United Kingdom, a temperate climate with adequate rainfall and fertile soils across varying terrains provides a nurturing haven for tall trees. Among these are , , and , each a colossal presence in the archipelago's woodlands. These species, apart from their impressive heights, play a crucial role in the ecosystem and are steeped in cultural and historical significance, forming natural monuments that connect the present to the arboreal past.

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Most Common Flowers of Winter

A Winter in the United Kingdom unveils a serene and icy landscape, yet it serves as a sanctuary for several robust flowers that defy the cold. Amongst the blooms that bravely blossom in this frosty season are the delicate snowdrops, symbolizing hope and purity. , known for its vibrant colors, adds a touch of warmth to the wintry scenery, while the elegant hellebores bring a sense of resilience. Lastly, the enchanting witch hazel captivates with its unique beauty.

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