Flowers
Ghost hunt: astoundingly rare orchid emerges from shadows of British woodland for first time in 15 years
The rarest plant in Britain, the ghost orchid, has been found flowering for the first time since 2009.
How a barren desert transforms into a vibrant blooming wonderland. Discover the stunning colours of South Africa's Namaqualand
When the rains fall, the arid lands of South Africa are set ablaze with breathtaking botanical colour
Sown vs native road verges: which is best?
Local councils and institutions are transforming road verges into rivers of flowers – and saving money while they do it. But are these sown ‘meadows’ any good for pollinators and other wildlife?
What’s the difference between wild and cultivated daffodils?
Amy-Jane Beer takes a look at how cultivated daffodils differ to their wild cousins
Wild garlic guide: how to identify, when and how to forage, and recipe ideas
In the forager's calendar, spring is one of the best times – when wild garlic grows in shaded woodlands, filling the air with a light garlicky scent.
Hydnora africana: what it is, when it flowers and how it survives underground without roots
We take a look at one of the world's strangest plants, the Hydnora africana
Wild roses and rosehips guide: how to identify, and how to make rosehip syrup
With its white-pink flowers in summer and bright red rosehips in autumn and winter, the dog rose is a familiar plant of our countryside.
What is nectar?
Stuart Blackman explains why nectar is more than just a sugary delight for insects
Dandelion guide: how to identify, why it’s so good for pollinators, and recipe ideas
Considered a weed by some, the dandelion is a common and familiar plant which is great for pollinators and popular with foragers.
Why some flowers look like insects
Have you noticed some flowers look like insects? It's all to do with sexual deception says Phil Gates
What is the largest flower in the world?
Why the biggest flower in the world is also the smelliest...
Rosebay willowherb guide: how to identify, what feeds on it and why it's also called bombweed and fireweed
A familiar sight along roadside and train tracks, rosebay willowherb is a distinctive plant species that is native to much of the northern hemisphere.
Which flower has the most petals?
Botanist Phil Gates explains how mutations can cause flowers to produce more petals.
How to identify non-native summer flowers
If you get the urge to gather a guilt-free garland of colourful midsummer blooms, these garden escapees may fit the bill. Naturalist and presenter Brett Westwood shares 12 for you to spot this summer.
British wildlife in June
Our countryside is being energised by the longer, warmer summer days. What will you spy in June?
Animals and plants named after Sir David Attenborough
Sir David Attenborough has over 40 species named after him, ranging from a prehistoric marine reptile to a native British flower only found in the Brecon Beacons of South Wales.
British wildlife in May
With birdsong in full force and summer knocking on the door, there’s plenty to discover this month.
Best wildflower seed bombs
Help insects and other pollinators with our pick of the best seed bombs packed full of nectar-filled wildflowers.
Wildlife Spectacles | Where and when to see orchids in the UK
Step into a rare lowland flower meadow and lose yourself among dreamy wild orchids in late spring and summer.
British wildlife in April
Spring’s in full swing, so keep an eye out for everything from bijou beetles and butterflies to sizeable storks. Enjoy nature and wildlife across the UK and Ireland with our guide to what different species are up to now.
Best plants to grow for pollinators in your wildlife garden
Dave Goulson, author of The Garden Jungle, reveals some of the best plants you can grow to give garden pollinators and other species a helping hand.
How to identify spring blossom on trees
The sign of spring blossom buzzing with pollinators on a warm sunny day always brings joy to a naturalist's heart. Identify 12 blossoms with this illustrated guide.
British wildlife in March
As spring brings an abundance of new life, it’s time to talk about the birds and the bee-flies. Here is selection of the month's best wildlife spectacles from around the British countryside in March.
British wildlife in February
From fruiting fungus to winter birds, here is selection of the month's best wildlife spectacles from around the British countryside in February.