how to spot the difference between native bluebells and spanish bluebells
DESCRIPTION
Mention bluebells and it is easy for people to conjure up an idyllic image of woodlands carpeted with soft bluebells shimmering in the spring sunshine, but unfortunately this may not always be the case. Our native bluebell is under threat from habitat destruction, illegal collection of bulbs, climate change and competition from non-native species. Find out more at http://www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/bluebellsTRANSCRIPT
www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk
BluebellsHow to spot the difference between native and non-native bluebells
upright
scent
droopy
creamy white
blue
sweet aroma
no scent
Half of the World’s native bluebell population is found in the U.K.
Hyacinthoides non-scripta
Hyacinthoides hispanica
THREATSSpanish bluebells crossbreed with our native bluebells to form a fertile hybrid diluting the unique characteristics of our native species.
Concerns are growing that this hybrid may eventually out- compete our native species.
Please remember native bluebells are protected by law
Native bluebells are typical of ancient woodland. Flowering before the leaf canopy appears.
narrow with rolled back tips
conical with open tips
flower shape
pollen colour
flower stalk
VSnative bluebell
spanishbluebell