- Wildlife
- Wildflowers
- Meadow Crane's-bill
northeastwildlife.co.uk
About
The striking blue and violet flowers of Meadow Crane's-bill can be seen in lowland hay meadows, roadside verges and grasslands, particularly on chalk soils. It flowers between June and August, colouring the roadsides of areas like the Cotswolds. It is also a popular garden plant that will grow well in sunny spots.
How to identify
The large purple flowers of Meadow Crane's-bill turn into pointed, bill-like seed pods that give the plant its common name. This clump-forming perennial has lobed leaves that are deeply divided.
Where to find it
Widespread in mainland UK, but rarer in the south-west of England and East Anglia.
Habitats
When to find it
- June
- July
- August
How can people help
The loss of many of our natural habitats in the countryside mean that the flowers and plants in our gardens provide vital food and shelter for a range of wildlife including butterflies, bees, birds and small mammals. To encourage wildlife into your garden, try planting native species such as Meadow Crane's-bill. To find out more about wildlife-friendly gardening, visit our Wild About Gardens website: a joint initiative with the RHS, there's plenty of facts and tips to get you started.