Top 20 Most Common Flowering Plants in Ireland

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Top 20 Most Common Flowering Plants in Ireland

Ireland's favorable climate and soil provide an ideal environment for a diverse range of native flowers to flourish. Among these resplendent blossoms are Common hawthorn, Elder, and Common foxglove. These flowers contribute to the visual beauty of the region, hold significant symbolism, and play a crucial ecological role. Trustworthy sources validate this information, ensuring the accuracy of their importance in the Irish environment.

Most Common Flower Plants

Common hawthorn

1. 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.

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer

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.

Bigleaf hydrangea

3. 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.

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Common foxglove

4. 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.

Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Creeping buttercup

5. 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.

Spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Tansy ragwort

6. 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.

Garden dahlia

7. 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.

Mid summer, Late summer, Fall

Common yarrow

8. 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.

Late spring, Summer

White clover

9. White clover

White clover (Trifolium repens) is a perennial herb, one of the most cultivated species of clover. It can be found on lawns and grasslands all over the world. White clover is often cultivated as a forage plant and used for green manure in agriculture.

Late spring, Summer

Hardy fuchsia

10. Hardy fuchsia

The vibrant colors and graceful shape of hardy fuchsia makes it a perfect choice to grace your garden. The hardy fuchsia is less sensitive to cold than other types of fuchsias, which means that this plant can go from containers or window boxes to permanent plantings along borders or as shrubs.

Japanese knotweed

11. Japanese knotweed

Hearing the name of japanese knotweed can strike fear in the heart of homeowners. When this aggressive and invasive weed is identified on a property, mortgage lenders sometimes deny loans or demand extensive chemical treatment. This is due to the fact that the root system of japanese knotweed is so extensive that once established, it can be nearly impossible to eradicate.

Cow parsnip

12. 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.

Common daisy

13. Common daisy

The common daisy produces iconic flowers that are seen in European and American folklore dating back centuries. It is often a representation of childlike innocence. The plant is edible and can be used in small quantities in salads, sandwiches, soups, or tea. However, it can also become toxic and cause digestive problems if eaten in quantity.

Spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Common bird's-foot trefoil

14. Common bird's-foot trefoil

Common bird's-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a common flowering perennial plant that grows widely throughout Europe and North America. Commercially, it is often added to livestock feed to prevent bloating. In Britain, common bird's-foot trefoil is often referred to as "butter and eggs" due to its flowering appearance and golden color. It attracts bumblebees and is considered an invasive species in North America and Australia.

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Himalayan balsam

15. Himalayan balsam

Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) is a flowering annual plant found natively in the Himalayan mountains. It is an attractive ornamental plant but has become an invasive species in North America due to humans transiting. In order to remove the invasive species, the plant must be cut out by its roots.

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Scotch heather

16. Scotch heather

Scotch heather (Calluna vulgaris) is an evergreen flowering shrub that produces hundreds of rose-pink to purplish-pink, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in late summer. Relatively low maintenance, it is perfect in rock gardens or used as a border or ground cover. It prefers acidic soil and will grow from 30 to 61 cm in full sun to partial shade.

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Common selfheal

17. Common selfheal

Common selfheal (Prunella vulgaris) is a flowering herb found in temperate habitats. It grows along roadsides, wastelands, and is also often planted in gardens. Young common selfheal leaves can be used as salad constituents or cooked in soups and stews. It is best to wash the bitter tannin off the leaves before eating them. An olive-colored dye can be made using the stems.

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

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.

Red campion

19. Red campion

The red campion is a biennial or perennial plant with dark pink to red flowers. Red campion is often planted on the borders of gardens and requires minimal maintenance once established. It attracts moths, butterflies, and bees.

Spring, Summer, Fall

Red clover

Red clover is widely cultivated as a fodder plant and green manure because its roots can fix nitrogen and increase the fertility of the soil. The cultivated Trifolium pratense is inevitably escaped and is now naturalized globally, including the United States and Australia. Its flowers are attractive, so it is also cultivated as an ornamental plant.

Late spring, Summer

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More Plants in Ireland

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Most Common Toxic Plants

Ireland's mild climate, abundant rainfall, and fertile soil create a conducive environment for diverse flora, including toxic species. Concerns arise from the prevalence of such plants, as , , and thrive across the nation. Monitoring and management efforts are critical to mitigate risks associated with these potentially dangerous native and invasive plants.

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Most Common Flowers of Spring

As Spring whispers through Ireland's rolling green landscapes, nature awakens, coaxing out vibrant colors of key flora. Amongst the first to unfurl their petals are , a symbol of new beginnings; , adding splashes of vivacious hues to the scenery; and , whose significance is woven into local lore. These blossoms mark a time of renewal, adding to the beauty and biodiversity of the region.

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Most Common Spring Fruits

In Ireland, Spring bursts forth with gentle showers and warming sunlight, creating a verdant tableau ideal for awakening fruit plants from their winter slumber. During this season, the local , ripening against a backdrop of rejuvenated greenery, is plucked at its peak of freshness. Simultaneously, fields speckled with the delicate blossoms of promise succulent treats, while gardens eagerly await the first harvest of , signaling a season of abundant growth and renewal.

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Most Common Fruits

Ireland's temperate maritime climate, paired with fertile soil, especially in the river valleys and coastal areas, creates a hospitable environment for various local fruit plants. Renowned for the , the lush Irish countryside also nurtures the and the culturally significant . These fruits hold a cherished place in regional diets and traditions, reflecting Ireland's rich horticultural heritage.

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Most Common Trees

Ireland's temperate maritime climate and fertile soils provide ideal conditions for the growth of native trees. Three emblematic local trees include the , , and . These trees hold significant cultural and ecological value within the region. They play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity, providing habitat for wildlife, and contributing to Ireland's rich cultural heritage.

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Most Common Weeds

Ireland's temperate maritime climate, with its ample rainfall and mild seasons, creates an ideal environment for various garden weeds to flourish. Among the numerous invasive species, , , and stand out as some of the most common weeds invading gardens and challenging green-thumbed enthusiasts. These opportunistic plants quickly colonize both cultivated and wild landscapes, necessitating persistent weeding efforts to manage their growth and prevent them from overtaking desired flora.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Ireland, with its mild climate and ample rainfall, provides an idyllic habitat for various towering tree species. Amidst its diverse landscapes, from rich woodlands to stately parks, several giants stretch towards the skies. These include the noble , the robust , and the verdant . Each species stands as a testament to Ireland's lush arboreal heritage, contributing to the ecological balance and narrating tales of historical legacy with their impressive heights and ages.

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Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in Ireland may be cold and frosty, but it is also a season that supports the growth of several beautiful flower plants. Despite the harsh conditions, these resilient blooms, such as , , and , manage to blossom and add a touch of color to the serene landscape. Each of these flowers showcases the perseverance, beauty, and symbolism that can be found even in the coldest months of the year in Ireland.

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Most Common Plants

In Ireland, you can find European ash, Common hawthorn, Sycamore, English ivy, Elder, and more! There are 50 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.

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