Types of Flowers in Ireland

Over 800 species of wild flowers are found on the island of Ireland, although more than 100 of those species are threatened with extinction due to development and climate change. Within Ireland several distinct habitats are represented, each home to different varieties of flowers.

Common Flowers

Because of its moderate climate and the variety of habitats on the island, Ireland has over 800 species of flowering plants. Common flowers across the island include daisies, geraniums, orchids, roses, lillies and, of course, clover, which is the national symbol.

Unusual Flowers

There is a group of fifteen plants known as Lusitanian Flora that can be found on the island's southern and western regions that came originally from Northern Spain and Portugal. These Mediterranean plants are unusual in this part of Europe and are not found anywhere else in the British Isles.

Four Seasons of Blooms

Because of the moderate climate, the Irish enjoy blooms all year long. In the winter, crocuses, primroses, anemones and gorse can be found in bloom, while the profusion of blooming flowers in the summer includes heathers, asters, forget-me-nots, pansies, wild roses and violets.

Flowering Herbs

Flowering plants that are useful for food or medicine are also common on the island. These herbs include Valerian, heather, mallow, St. John's wort, comfrey and nettle.

County Clare

The area of County Clare known as the Burren is a frequent destination for trekkers who want to see wildflowers, because a variety of habitats support a range of flowering plants. The profusion of flowers that covers the land in this area ranges from heathers to orchids, hollies to fen violets.

References

• Wildflowers of Ireland
• National Botanic Gardens of Ireland
• BBC