September Highlights

A few odds and ends in a post I never got round to finishing last year. Starting with these two unexpected finds by the stables at Royds Green (VC63) - Marrow (Cucurbita pepo) and Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima).

On an uncultivated arable field at Aberford (VC64) Niger (Guizotia abyssinica). Also found by Mike Wilcox on river shingle at Apperley Bridge (VC64).

Also at Aberford, it was great to refind Wild Liquorice (Astragalus glycyphyllos). This is another rarity of the magnesian limestone that has not been reported for many years. Just a shame I missed it in flower.

Bringing some 'autumn joy' to the local bee population - Hylotelephium (Sedum) 'Herbstfreude' at Rothwell (VC63).

 

Kippax & Great Preston (VC64)

A couple of quick pics from this weekends stroll in search of Rosa x irregularis (found!).

I seemed to hit Townclose Hill (Billy Wood) just right this year for the Autumn Gentians (Gentianella amarella subsp. amarella). It was nice to catch them at peak bloom.

Back along The Lines I strayed into an adjacent arable field, I can't resist this habitat as there is always hope of finding a rarity. My luck was in and I was rewarded by a plant that was new to me, this being Niger (Guizotia abyssinica).

Coming back through Water Haigh Woodland Park in Woodlesford (VC63), I was also lucky to find a fine plant of Large-toothed Hawkweed (Hieracium prominentidens), which by the standards of the genus is a doddle to ID and one anyone should be able tackle with confidence. My photos were abysmal so check it out in Yorkshire Hawkweeds. If you don't own a copy yet, buy it while you can as it is written for those only just starting to dabble their toes into the wonderful world of Hawkweeds. A wonderful and well illustrated book.