Summer is arriving - in fits and starts - but the variable weather we have had of late doesn't stop the wildflowers from blooming. Wildflowers are appearing all over Dungeness, with an amazing display on the seaward side of The Parade rolling into Coast Drive down to the point. Wildflowers are extremely important for our pollinating insects and without them, nothing would survive.
White-tailed bumblebee on Vipers Bugloss
On the reserve we have Nottingham Catchfly - so called as it used to be found in Nottingham Castle but hasn't been seen there for over 100 years. It has a pinkish-white flower, hairy leaves and an evening scent which attracts moths and other flying insects. We have several large clumps out on the main trail, the biggest close to Christmas Dell hide and two smaller clumps just outside the Visitor Centre windows.
Nottingham Catchfly - Dave Clarke
All over the reserve you will also find sea campion, birds foot trefoil, scarlet pimpernel, hounds tongue, yellow horned poppy and of course an abundance of vipers bugloss.
Yellow-horned poppy - Louise Kelly
The glorious foxgloves are out along the return trail close to the Discovery Area and there are small clumps of thrift dotted all over the reserve.
Dungeness has over one third of the UKs plant life and some unique and rare species. Join our Wildflower Walks throughout June with expert guides so you can enjoy the full beauty and learn a little more about the wildflowers on the reserve.