Ulex europeaus - Gorse

I came across this ulex europeaus in Highfield, mid-winter. Ulex are spiny everygreen shrubs with very spiny branches, holding small leaves that soon fall – and often fragrant, yellow, pea-like flowers. Its spines are 15-25mm long, found on heaths and grassy places, mainly on acid soils – however, they can also tolerate neutral soils. Its flowers are 2cm long, bright yellow and are coconut scented – these blossom in January – December, but mainly February – May.