A handy guide from Salisbury-based plant conservation charity, Plantlife.

NATIVE BLUEBELLS are one of the most stunning sights in the countryside. Britain is home to a significant proportion of the world’s total population. However, all is not well. Loss of woodland habitats, competition with non-native bluebells and illegal collection of bulbs threaten our wild populations. Spanish bluebells and hybrid bluebells are both more vigorous than our native species and, once out in the wild, can crossbreed with the native bluebell. This is a problem, as crossbreeding dilutes the unique characteristics of our native bluebell. In a study conducted by Salisbury-based Plantlife, one in-six broadleaved woodlands were found to contain the hybrid or Spanish bluebell.

1. Native bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta)

Also known as the wild hyacinth, this native species prefers woods, but is also found on hedge-banks and sea cliffs. The native bluebell’s deep violet-blue flowers have a strong, sweet scent and the flower stems droop or nod distinctly to one side.

2. Hybrid bluebell (Hyacinthoides hispanica x non-scripta)

Also known as the garden bluebell, this species was first recorded in the wild in 1963. It is mainly found in woodlands, but also grows in hedgerows, churchyards, shady roadsides, rough ground and waste places, and is, of course, common in gardens. It is thought to be most frequent in the lowlands especially in the entrances to public woodland.

3. Spanish bluebell (Hyacinthoides hispanica)

This species, native to Portugal and western Spain, was first introduced into British gardens as an ornamental plant around 1680. It was favoured over the native bluebell because it can grow almost anywhere and has larger blooms. The Spanish bluebell was first recorded in the wild in 1909. Its flowers range in colour from pale blue to white or pink and it has very little or no scent.

This article originally appeared in the May 2017 issue of Wiltshire Life. To subscribe please click here.

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