Gueldar Rose

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 Not really a rose this plant gets its name from an area of Holland where a cultivar of this was developed for gardens. This small tree is an indicator of ancient woodland. Gueldar rose is widespread in England but rare in Scotland. At this time of the year the lovely red berries are prominent. The berries are a favourite of migrant waxwings and are eaten by bullfinch, thrushes and other birds.

The leaves are three lobed, slightly hairy underneath, and the leaf stems have a central channel in them. The flowers in spring are white. This plant has some significance in the customs and folklore of Ukraine and Russia. There are a few specimens of this plant above the abandoned railway line near us. The berries are edible and can be made into a jelly but are toxic in excess. Extracts of the plant have had medicinal use - another name is "Cramp Bark"- and this was used to treat menstrual cramps and as an aid in childbirth.

Diary
Overnight cameras revealed one badger and a fox.


Regular followers might care to note that I will not be in the Eden Valley for a while - I don't expect to make another post until mid September.



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