Scrophularia nodosa - Common Figwort
This tall plant of shaded hedgerows and woods prefers damp
soil. The stem has a square cross-section, which helps distinguish it from
deadly nightshade (whose stems are round). The flowers, at typically 8mm
across, are only about a third the size of those of deadly nightshade.
The first flowers appear in early June, and figworts can be
found blooming as late as September in well-shaded places. In the picture
above, taken in early June, the dull purple flowers are just opening.
Wildflowers of Wales
This wildflower is one of many dozens that are featured in the First Nature Guide to the
Wonderful Wildflowers of Wales, Volume 4 - Watersides and Wetlands.
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