Senecio jacobaea - Common Ragwort
There are many species of Ragwort, a weed that is poisonous to cattle. Farmers try to eradicate this plant by
pulling up the young flowers before they can seed, but the seeds can remain dormant in the
soil for many years, so it is a continuous job.
Oxford Ragwort, Senecio squalidus (shown here) is
widespread and just as dangerous to livestock.
The first flowers appear in June, and Ragwort is at its
finest in July and August; you may see a few stragglers in bloom as late as November.
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 3 - Mountains, Moorland and Meadows.
|
|
