Plant ID - Nettle? (1 Viewer)

Hi,

As a soon to graduate Zoologist my botanical knowledge is decidedly limited which is somthing I'm hoping to rectify over the coming months by exploring my jungle/back garden and surrounding woods. In the meantime I would be grateful if anybody could ID this nettle-type plant which is very common here.

I am keen to encourage native plant species in my back garden, particularly if they encourage wildlife, I guess that may include what some people call weeds but I reckon everything has its place!

I would also appreciate recommendations for a good field guide for plants and trees in the UK.

Thanks for looking,

Alan

Hi Alan,
The plant in question is 'jack by the hedge' or garlic mustard, common along base of hedges. When I get to my book I will look up its corresct name for you.
Keeble Martin was always the book to have at home. There are more 'portable' books. Will look what I have...

Excellent, thanks for your help.

Alan

I use Frances Rose's Wildflower Key. Although the keys are often confusing (and combine flower & seed characters far too often) the illustrations are spot on.

ellroy said:

I am keen to encourage native plant species in my back garden, particularly if they encourage wildlife, I guess that may include what some people call weeds but I reckon everything has its place!

Click to expand...

The best way of getting rid of weeds in your garden? Change your perspective

How funny, I saw this in my parents hedge tonight and asked my dad to crush the flowers in fingers and smell them (knowing what it is). Sorry, can't smell anything as I have just been crushing some garlic and my fingers stink of it.

Doh!

Steve.