Willowherb (episode one)

For some reason, quite possibly the Saturday Telegraph gardening section, we have been warned of a candidate invasive species by the name of rosebay willowherb, once known for colonising bomb sites, but now making a something of a comeback on rough or disturbed ground generally. Also well known in North America for colonising burnt out woods.

Not to be confused with a similar plant called purple loosestrife, a name apparently derived from an antique king of Sicily. Fond of the sides of ponds and lakes.

So I thought I would see what I could find around Epsom, with the snap above being the best I could manage, by Stamford Green pond - in which a few purple flowers can be seen bottom left. Ruled by BH to be loosestrife rather than willowherb, but I plan on a return visit to count stamens and that sort of thing.

Further checking on the sides of the railway line to Waterloo yesterday was no improvement. They seemed to be dominated by brambles, purple buddleia and mare's tail.

Further news in due course.