Salix fragilis - Crack willow

I found this crack willow in Highfield Park mid-winter. It is a large tree when mature, with a broadly domed crown. It has a dull grey-brown bark and branches that arise lower down towards the base. If found in Spring, it can be found to have male catkins; yellow, pendulous – and opening around the same time as the leaves. The female catkins are green, pendulous. The species is very widespread and can be found in damp lowland woodlands and along river and canal banks.

 

Carpinus betulus - Hornbeam

Commonly known as Hornbeam, Carpinus betulus is a large deciduous tree. I came across this particular Hornbeam in Manchester’s UMIST campus, however, have since discovered it in most public spaces – it is frequently planted in parks and gardens. It has a silvery grey bark with deep fissures lower down. I found this particular hornbeam early spring, however if spotted in autumn, they would be found to have yellow through orange to russet brown leaves.  Its branches are densely packed and rather twisted.  If planted in hedgerows, it will retain its leaves long into the winter. Hornbeam is tolerant of heavy clay soils.

 

Rubus fruticosus - Bramble

This bramble was one I came across in Highfield park in December. It has arching stems with various shaped prickles and roots when they touch the ground. It can usually be found in hedgerows and scrub. If found in May – August, it would be found to have white or pink flowers 2-3cm across and fruits of familiar blackberries. It thrives in sunlight and well drained, moist soils.

Impatiens glandulifera - Himalayan Balsam

Commonly known as Himalayan Balsam, Impatiens glandulifera is a distinctive annual with reddish stems. This particular Balsam was one I found in Highfield park mid-winter. However, usually it would be found along river banks and on damp waste ground - perhaps explaining the state of the one if found. The annual is expected to blossom July – October. The flowers are 3-4cm tall, pinkish purple with a short curved spur; on stalks in clusters.

Buddleia davidii - Butterfly-bush

Buddleia davidii (which is commonly known as Butterfly-bush) would usually be found to grow on waste and disturbed ground. The shrubby perennial blossoms from June to September, its flowers are pinkish purple, 4-lobed and 3-4mm across. Its scent is known to attract butterflies. The vigorous deciduous shrub grows to 5m tall. The plants in this genus are tough, quick growing, sun loving and salt tolerant. This particular Buddleia was one I found off Stockport road, mid-winter.