Native UK Flowers:
Native flowers to the UK are indigenous to the region and have evolved to be best suited to the soil and weather conditions we have here. Native flowers are best to use in your garden as they are ideal to support local wildlife. Some common flowers native to the UK include:
- Bluebell (Hyacinthoides). Iconic bell-shaped woodland flowers that appear in spring and they provide an early nectar source for bees, butterflies, and hoverflies.
- Primrose (Primula Vulgaris). Early spring bloomers with yellow flowers. Butterflies such as the Orange-Tip Butterfly love this flower, as well as some Nocturnal Moths which are drawn to the fragrant flowers.
- Foxglove (Digitalis). Tall flowers in pink, purple, or white that are loved by Bees.
- Cowslip (Primula Veris). Have clusters of yellow bell-shaped flowers which provide early season nectar for Bees.
- Cornflower (Centaurea Cyanus). Providing nectar for butterflies such as the Painted Lady, these have vibrant blue flowers. After their bloom, they also are a great seed source for Finches and Sparrows for example in the Autumn and Winter months.
- Meadowsweet (Filipendula Ulmaria). White flower clusters that bloom in summer are attractive to many pollinators.
- Harebell (Campanula Rotundifolia). Bell-shaped flowers that grow on slim stems. They are popular with many pollinators.
- Ragged Robin (Silene Flos-cuculi). Much-divided, pink flowers.
- Lily of the valley (Convallaria Majalis). Sweetly scented, bell-shaped white flowers, best planted between September and October.
- Dog-rose (Rosa Canina). Common in the South of the UK. It has pink flowers, and is fast-growing, without being invasive.
- Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum Vulgare). This flower is very popular with butterflies, and is good to pair with other pollinator-friendly flowers. However, it can be very invasive. Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, and Painted Lady Butterflies are often seen around this flower.
- Columbine (Aquilegia). This plant is an easy-to-grow flower that has seasonal interest throughout much of the year.
- Viper’s-Bugloss (Echium Vulgare). This flowers between May and September, and supports a wide range of wildlife including Beetles, Hoverflies, and many pollinators.
