Spanish Bluebell is a
non-native invasive
perennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in woodland and waste ground, to a mature height of up to 40cm.
Spanish Bluebells have pale-blue, pink or white bell-shaped flowers borne all around the flower stem (unlike English Bluebells which are more tubular and droop to one side). Following introduction into the UK, the species has crossed with the English Bluebell to create hybrids that can out-compete and endanger the native plant.
Botanic classification and naming: Spanish Bluebell is a member of the Asparagus (Asparagaceae) family. The genus name
'Hyacinthoides' identifies the plant as a Bluebell and its species name 'hispanica' means 'Spanish plant'.
Concerns: It is illegal to plant this species in Northern Ireland, or to cause it to grow in the wild. Note that all parts of the plant are toxic to humans, pets and livestock, containing poisons that affect the heart and digestive system.
Benefits: Bluebells provide an early source of nectar for pollinators.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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