The Flora of Loton Deer Park by Shropshire Botanical Society

The Flora of Loton Deer Park

Mark Duffell The Biodiversity Training Project and the Shropshire Botanical Society

The Flora of Loton Deer Park An annotated checklist of the vascular plants of Loton Deer Park, based on fieldwork conducted by the Biodiversity Training Project, with the Shropshire Botanical Society in 2010. by Mark Duffell with contributions by Mike Baskeyfield, Helen Critchley, Damian Glynn, Martin Godfrey, Emma Phillips, Sue Swindells and Gill Wilson.

Biodiversity Training Project and Shropshire Botanical Society Preston Montford Field Centre Montford Bridge Shrewsbury Shropshire SY4 1DX 2010 ACCESS: Much of Loton Deer Park and Alberbury Quarry are private. Therefore permission needs to be sought from Sir Michael Leighton before entering.

This report is freely available in electronic format via the website of the Botanical Society of the British Isles, www.bsbi.org.uk. Readers are welcome to download and reproduce it in electronic or printed form, and distribute it as they wish, provided no charge of financial gain is made and no changes are made to the contents. The right to reproduce the Ordnance Survey map is subject to the regulations of that organisation.

Contents Introduction

Location of Loton Deer Park

Botanical Recording

The current survey

Gains and losses

Summary of vegetation at Loton Deer Park

Discussion and future management

Future Work

References

Acknowledgements

Appendix 1: Annotated species list

Appendix 2: Losses and gains in Loton Deer Park

Appendix 3: Axiophytes recorded in Loton Deer Park

Appendix 4: Ellenberg R values of selected Grassland species 33 Index of Genera in species list

Introduction The Biodiversity Training Project was set up in 2006 to ‘enable, enhance and promote biological recording amongst volunteers in Shropshire and the wider region’. Now coming to the end of its five year run, it has trained up numerous recorders in a wide variety of taxonomic skills. One of these areas was botany and all the recorders of this flora have attended at least one course, often several over many years. In spring of this year it was decided to run a slightly different course where regular visits were to be made to one area and, using the taxonomic skills gained make records of all the plant species found. At the end of this year of recording instead of producing a bland species list it was decided to write up the results as a ‘Flora’ in a similar vein to other recent local floras: Attingham, Haughmond Hill and The Stiperstones (Whild and Lockton 2005; 2006 2009).

Location and history of the Deer Park Loton Deer Park, Alberbury is situated to the west of Shrewsbury within the five 1km2 grid squares (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3612, SJ3613 and SJ3614). The northern boundary is defined by the B4393. The western edge of the site forms the political border between England and Wales and also the boundary of the botanical vice-counties of Shropshire (v.c. 40) and Montgomeryshire (v.c. 47). Most of the site is private with no public access except for two public footpaths which cross from the north-west to south-eastern parts of the park. To the east-northeast of the site is a disused quarry known as Alberbury Quarry. Loton Deer Park is part of the Loton Estate owned by Sir Michael Leighton and has been the seat of the Leighton family since 1391. The area is managed as a Deer Park and contains a sizeable herd of Fallow Deer. Loton Deer Park has a complex series of tracks and roadways used in part for hill climbs which take place throughout the year. Location of Loton Deer Park with each 1km2 marked

The geology of the Alberbury area is unusual and the Deer Park contains two LGS (Locally Important Geological and Geomorphological Sites formerly RIGS: Regionally Important Geological and geomorphological Sites): the quarry to the northeast of the site, which has tufa formations on some of the walls and the cutting to the far eastern end of the site near Park Lodge. The underlying rock is of Alberbury Breccia (also known as Cardeston Breccia or Cardeston Stone), utilised in the walls of the Deer Park and local buildings and quarried on site. Alberbury Breccia, a red sandstone with lighter coloured fragments of carboniferous limestone distributed irregularly throughout, is chemically calcareous. It runs in a localised raised arc of about five kilometres long through Wattlesborough Heath, Alberbury and on into Cardeston, with the largest outcrop being in Loton Deer Park. Immediately outside of the deer park is another LGS, part of the cutting made for the B4393 road (Mercer 1959; Shropshire Geology 2010; Stones in Archaeology Database 2010). The purpose of this survey was to document the vascular plants growing on the site. Historical data has been reviewed.

Botanical Recording Historical data for Loton Deer Park and Alberbury Quarry The list and table below show the number of records made by each recorder, total number of species recorded annually and total number of annual records, data drawn from the Shropshire Flora Database (Shropshire Botanical Society 2010). Botanical recording in Loton Park has taken place for over 170 years, from the first record made by Mr J.F.M. Dovaston, circa 1841 for Mistletoe (Viscum album). The date for this record is approximate and is the publication date for Leighton’s Flora (1841). After a period of 30 years, in 1871, Sir J.B.L. Warren (later 3rd Baron De Tabley and under that name publishing the ‘Flora of Cheshire’ 1899 (Kent and Allen 1984)) recorded Broad-leaved Pondweed (Potamogeton natans). Around this time Warren recorded several other Pondweeds in Cheshire and West Sussex (Herbaria@Home 2010). Around 1905 the Rev. W. Phillips (1822-1905) made the first records for Hart’s-tongue (Asplenium scolopendrium) on “Loton Rocks”, Hound’s-tongue (Cynoglossum officinale), Common Stork’s-bill (Erodium cicutarium) in “Loton Park”, Dove’s-foot Crane’s-bill (Geranium molle) in “Loton Park” and, Field Madder (Sherardia arvensis). We do not know the correct date for these records, 1905 being the year of Phillips’ death. After a 70 year interlude a Mr E.H. Wolfe recorded Southern Marsh-orchid (Dactylorhiza praetermissa). He made a further ten botanical records all for orchids from Shropshire. In 1976 Mrs S. Stafford made the first of a series of records for that decade and beyond; making the only ever record for Smooth Cat’s-ear (Hypochaeris glabra) on “dry heath”. She also recorded Small-flowered Buttercup (Ranunculus parviflorus) on a dry rocky bank. It was also found that year by Mr P. Oswald in the old quarry. Further records by Stafford include Smaller Cat’s-ear (Phleum bertelonii) in 1978. In 1979 she 5

found “masses of plants” of Adder’s-tongue (Ophioglossum vulgatum) in “a rocky slabbed area that had been flooded earlier in the year" and Hoary Cinquefoil (Potentilla argentea) as "One plant on rocky outcrop in short grass with Veronica and Erodium." She relocated the Adder’s-tongue the following year finding only a few plants. In 1980 Mr W.V. Prestwood visited Loton Deer Park and recorded the following species as occurring in grassland; Silver Hair-grass (Aira caryophyllea), Parsley-piert (Aphanes arvensis agg.), Sticky Mouse-ear (Cerastium glomeratum), Little Mouse-ear (C. semidecandrum), Erodium cicutarium, Common Whitlowgrass (Erophila verna), Lesser Hawkbit (Leontodon saxatilis), Early Forget-me-not (Myosotis ramosissima) and Potentilla argentea. In 1981 Stafford made a further 22 records, most of these were associated species with either Cynoglossum officinale or Dactylorhiza praetermissa. The Cynoglossum was recorded “On a dry, sand base-rich, NE facing area in Loton Deer Park. Rabbit infested”, it is still present in the same area although there would appear to be no infestation of rabbits nowadays. The Dactylorhiza praetermissa was recorded as a “Large colony in base-rich disused quarry, with D. fuchsii and hybrids”. In 1986 Mr S. R. Turner found two locations (in SJ3513, SJ3514) for Potentilla argentea; Stafford also re-found it again recording “several plants on rocky outcrop slabs with Festuca ovina and Aira sp., Thymus sp., but always preferring as little competition as possible”. In 1988 Prof I.C. Trueman and Dr S.J. Whild visited making a species list of 93 species, as well as undertaking a National Vegetation Community (NVC) survey. He made the first records of Early Hair-grass (Aira praecox), Slender Parsley-piert (Aphanes australis), Sandwort (Arenaria serpyllifolia sl.), Fern-grass (Catapodium rigidum), Fairy Flax (Linum catharticum), Changing Forgetme-not (Myosotis discolor), Common Milkwort (Polygala vulgaris), Annual Pearlwort (Sagina apetala), Lesser Stitchwort (Stellaria graminea) and Heath Speedwell (Veronica officinalis). He made the only records for Heath-grass (Danthonia decumbens), Trailing St. John’s-wort (Hypericum humifusum), Hoary Plantain (Plantago media), Trailing Tormentil (Potentilla anglica), Tormentil (P. erecta), Bulbous Buttercup (Ranunculus bulbosus) and a Dandelion (Taraxacum laevigatum agg.). From his grid reference it would appear that he was recording on or near the public footpath, in a good area of heathy grassland and which still has many of the previously mentioned species. One interesting find is the only record for Horned Pondweed (Zannichellia palustris) in “Wetland near quarry on Loton Park Estate (SJ360130)”. In May 1991 Mrs P. Parker made the first of many records for the coming years, with Ranunculus parviflorus from the Deer Park, and the first record for Rue-leaved Saxifrage (Saxifraga tridactylites) this time in Alberbury Quarry. She recorded both from the “shallow soil over Alberbury Breccia flags”. In 1992 she made a further 48 records including the first and only for Musk Thistle (Carduus nutans), Common Centaury (Centaurium erythraea), Perforate St. John’swort (Hypericum perforatum), Cat’s-ear (Hypochaeris radicata) and Butterbur (Petasites hybridus). In 1995, except for Viscum album, all 35 records were made at the tetrad level (SJ31L and SJ31M). An anonymous recorder(s) made 44 records in 1992 all at the tetrad level (SJ31R and SJ31M). Frustratingly there are several new species included in this list but we cannot be sure that these are from the Deer Park and Quarry or from elsewhere on the Loton Estate and adjacent land. 6

Dr. S.J. Whild made 62 records in 1996 as leader of the Shropshire Flora Group, 33 of these were for the quarry and included the following new species Moschatel (Adoxa moschatellina), Bugle (Ajuga reptans), Remote Sedge (Carex remota) and Compact Rush (Juncus conglomeratus). In 2006 as part of the county wide Quarry survey project, Dr. A.K. Thorne surveyed Alberbury Quarry undertaking a Phase 1 and NVC survey with a comprehensive species list and detailed target notes. As well as relocating the majority of the previous records she also identified the following new species: Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria), Common Water-plantain (Alisma plantago-aquatica), Maidenhair Spleenwort (Asplenium trichomanes sl.), Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris), False Fox-sedge (Carex otrubae), Greater Tussock-sedge (Carex paniculata), Woodsedge (Carex sylvatica), Enchanter’s-nightshade (Circaea lutetiana), Hairy St. John’s-wort (Hypericum hirsutum), Square-stalked St. John’s-wort (Hypericum tetrapterum), Ploughman’sspikenard (Inula conyzae), Italian Rye-grass (Lolium multiflorum), Water-cress (Nasturtium officinale), Austrian Pine (Pinus nigra), Common Polypody (Polypodium vulgare), Hybrid Blackpoplar (Populus xcanadensis), Small Pondweed (Potamogeton berchtoldii), Curled Pondweed (P. crispus), Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), Sanicle (Sanicula europaea), Giant Fescue (Schedonorus giganteus), Meadow Fescue (S. pratensis), Ragged Robin (Silene flos-cuculi), Black Bryony (Tamus communis), Colt’s-foot (Tussilago farfara), Bulrush (Typha latifolia), Great Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) and Sweet Violet (Viola odorata). Recording Timeline 1841 (circa.) 1871 1905 (circa.) 1974 1976 1978 1979 1980 1981 1986 1988 1991 1992 1995 1996 2006 2010

Mr J.F.M. Dovaston (1) Sir J.B.L. Warren (1) Rev. W. Phillips (5) Mr E.H. Wolfe (1) Mrs S. Stafford (2), Mr P. Oswald (1) Mrs S. Stafford (1) Mrs S. Stafford (2) Mr W. Prestwood (9), Mrs S. Stafford (1) Mrs S. Stafford (22) Mrs S. Stafford (1), Mr S. Turner (2) Prof. I. Trueman and Dr S.J. Whild (93) Mrs P. Parker (2) Mrs P. Parker (48), Anon (44). Mrs P. Parker (35) Dr S.J. Whild (62), Dr. A.K. Thorne (140) Current survey team (847)

Total number of species recorded and total number of records collected for each year for which data is available.

Year 1841 1871 1905 1974 1976 1978 1979 1980 1981 1986 1988 1991 1992 1995 1996 2006 Current survey Totals for all years

Total number of species recorded 1 1 5 1 2 1 2 10 22 1 93 2 68 25 61 140

Total number of records made 1 1 5 1 3 1 2 10 22 3 93 2 92 35 62 140

280

847

321

1320

The current survey A survey of Loton Deer Park and Quarry was undertaken on the following dates (8th November 2009; 25th April 2010; 24th June 2010; 6th July 2010; 26th July 2010; 9th August 2010; 31st August 2010; 10th September 2010; 2nd October 2010). The Shropshire Botanical Society held a field meeting at Loton Deer Park on the 25th April 2010 led by the author. A total of 8 recorders produced records for this current survey led by Mark Duffell (Mike Baskeyfield, Helen Critchley, Damian Glynn, Martin Godfrey, Emma Phillips, Sue Swindells and Gill Wilson). A list was made of all the vascular plants seen using standard botanical recording techniques (Hill, Fasham et al. 2005). Identifications were made using Bean (1970), Fryer and HylmĂś (2009), Hubbard (1992), Mitchell (1974), Rose and Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly (2006), Poland (2009), Rich and Jermy (1998) and Stace (1999, 2010). Not all planted trees were recorded. A site list was made of all species seen, recorded at the monad (1km2) level, with rarities or species of interest recorded at the 10m level using a GPS (Garmin Etrex, accuracy 10m or better). All records were submitted to the Vice-county recorder, Dr Sarah Whild. A total of 847 records were collected comprising 278 different species (Appendix 1). 8

92 new species were found (Appendix 2). This number does not include several species identified to subspecies level (Asplenium trichomanes ssp. quadrivalens; Galium palustre ssp. palustre; Montia fontana ssp. chondrosperma; Vicia sativa ssp. nigra; V. sativa ssp. segetalis). Nor does it include cultivars (Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Simon-Louis Frère’; A. pseudoplatanus ‘Atropurpureum’ and Cedrus atlantica ‘Glauca;). None of these have not been claimed as gains although they increase the number of new taxa by eight. A total of 33 axiophytes were recorded from the Deer Park and Quarry and including historical records that makes 49 axiophytes for the site (Appendix 3). Anecdotally this year’s rainfall for Loton Deer Park, particularly the winter rainfall, has been lower than in previous years (pers. comm. Sir Michael Leighton). This was evident in the low level of several of the pools when first visited early in the season and in the woodland causing the ground flora to go over quicker than usual.

Gains and Losses GAINS: All the previous surveys were one-off events and the majority were undertaken later in the year (in comparison to this survey). This has allowed us to pick up a few species that would not have been apparent to previous recorders, particularly Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis) and Goldilocks (Ranunculus auricomus), two species that may be missed later on. This survey has also covered the majority of the park, some areas more than once and over a wider season; hence the level of recording is better than in the past when more limited searches were made. Investigation of habitats not previously explored such as the tyre walls gave up Ladyfern (Athyrium filix-femina); the woodland in the northwest (Wood Sorrel (Oxalis acetosella)) and the rock outcrops to the west (Smooth Hawk’s-beard (Crepis capillaris)). Quite a few of the gains were due to recording some of the deliberately introduced native and non-native species such as parkland or plantation trees e.g. Oregon Maple (Acer macrophyllum), Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), Sweet Chestnut (Castanea sativa), Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica), Grey Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica ‘Glauca’), Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea), Wilson’s Honeysuckle (Lonicera nitida), Bhutan Pine (Pinus wallichiana), Populus xcanadensis, Prunus avium (Wild Cherry), Prunus cerasifera (Cherry Plum), Prunus domestica (Wild Plum), Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel), Quercus petraea (Sessile Oak), Q. xrosacea (Hybrid Oak), Robinia pseudoacacia (False Acacia), Sequoia sempervirens (Coast Redwood) and Sequoiadendron giganteum (Wellingtonia). Another non-native Wall Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster horizontalis ss.) had been introduced by bird sown seed onto the deer park wall. Hedgerows yielded two new species, Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea), and Holly (Ilex aquifolium) forming part of a hedge bounding the farmland below the quarry; and undoubtedly these were planted originally. Also introduced was the hybrid Hawthorn (Crataegus xmedia); this was identified by Mr M.F. Godfrey and it could be found as individuals or parts of hedges. A determined effort was made to reach all the pools and ponds found on the estate. This rewarded our search with thirteen new species including: Marsh Foxtail (Alopecurus geniculatus), Fools’ Water-cress (Apium nodiflorum), Cyperus Sedge (Carex pseudocyperus), Common Spike-rush (Eleocharis palustris), Water Horsetail (Equisetum fluviatile), Floating Sweet-grass (Glyceria fluitans), Ivy-leaved Duckweed (Lemna trisulca), Water-purslane (Lythrum portula), Creeping 9

Forget-me-not (Myosotis secunda), Water Forget-me-not (Myosotis scorpioides), Redshank (Persicaria maculosa), Common Water-crowfoot (Ranunculus aquatilis sl.) and Branched Bur-reed (Sparganium erectum); also including the wetland tree Alder (Alnus glutinosa). The quarry also yielded the charophyte Common Stonewort (Chara vulgaris) as well as hanks of Willow Moss (Fontinalis antipyretica). As well as surveying all the good bits, the coarser rougher or less managed areas also revealed ten new species including Ground-elder (Aegopodium podagraria), Fool’s Parsley (Aethusa cynapium), Cow Parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris), Black Horehound (Ballota nigra), White Bryony (Bryonia dioica), Large Bindweed (Calystegia silvatica), Shepherd’s-purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris), Hoary Willowherb (Epilobium parviflorum), Square-stalked Willowherb (Epilobium tetragonum), Field Horsetail (Equisetum arvense), Red Dead-nettle (Lamium purpureum), Equal-leaved Knotgrass (Polygonum aviculare ss.), Silverweed (Potentilla anserina), Groundsel (Senecio vulgaris), Hedge Mustard (Sisymbrium officinale), Annual Nettle (Urtica urens) and Green Field-Speedwell (Veronica agrestis). Even previously well botanised areas such as Trueman and Whild’s records for SJ360138 yielded Bird’s-foot (Ornithopus perpusillus), a small plant easily overlooked and only found in one location on the estate, although undoubtedly more widely distributed in suitable areas. A similar though larger species is Musk-mallow (Malva moschata) found in the quarry. LOSSES: In all, 33 species previously recorded were not re-recorded in the current survey (Appendix 2). Some species were deliberately overlooked, particularly those which were deemed planted, unless they had naturalised. Several species were probably missed due to their diminutive size and or timing of survey Aira caryophyllea, Aira praecox, Ophioglossum vulgatum and can probably also include Cerastium glomeratum and C. semidecandrum. Other species are being lost on a national or county scale. Hypochaeris glabra is on the decline nationally (Stewart et al. 1994; Preston et al. 2003) and locally (Whild and Lockton 2005), since Stafford made the record in 1976 there has been only one other county record made, in 1990. The reason for the loss at Loton may be due to loss of grazing from that specific area or being missed (the flowers open at 9am and are closed by 1 or 2pm and the previously recorded site was visited in the evening). Whilst the original record is not in doubt, the loss of Juncus conglomeratus is an enigma. It was only ever recorded by Dr. S.J. Whild in or near the quarry. Dr. A.K. Thorne’s very thorough survey of this area ten years later did not pick it up and neither did we. A possible cause is the drying out of suitable habitats in the quarry, a reason given in Preston et al. (2003). The current survey might have missed or under-recorded this species in favour of other Juncus species particularly subspecies of J. effusus. A wide suite of species were not re-recorded from the Quarry including Dactylorhiza praetermissa, D. xgrandis and Lesser Twayblade (Neottia ovata). Eight figure grid references for these species were available, but despite several visits to these areas no sign could be found of any species other than Common Spotted-orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii). Whilst the Neottia ovata site was covered in a dense stand of nettles and could have been missed. The site for Dactylorhiza 10

praetermissa and its hybrid had an open ground flora, but were heavily shaded by fairly recent growth of sapling Ash and Sycamore (at least five years old). Other species not relocated in the quarry despite being seen in 2006 are Caltha palustris, Ranunculus parviflorus, Rhamnus cathartica, Sanicula europaea, Silene flos-cuculi and the grasses Lolium multiflorum and Schedonorus pratensis. Some species such as Ranunculus parviflorus can be highly variable in growth form, from miniscule plants one year to large plants that continue flowering right through to Christmas in mild damp years (Stewart et al. 1994). The loss of the Orchids could be due to degradation of the site and they are more overgrown than previously (pers. comms. Dr. A.K. Thorne). All previous records (including Dr. A.K. Thorne’s) talk of plants growing on exposed slabs with a flush nearby. This habitat seems to be less prominent now; perhaps the margins of the stream through the middle of the quarry are drying up. Species found with the orchids such as Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis agg.) and Leontodon hispidus (recorded elsewhere in this survey but not in the quarry) were also absent. Several grassland species have not been re-found including Carduus nutans which requires overgrazing (Preston et al. 2003). Plantago media also grows in grassland and may have been be missed or recorded in error for Greater Plantain (Plantago major) when it is not in flower. The loss of Danthonia decumbens is purely due to lack of recording during the current survey. Polypodium vulgare was not re-found in the quarry but the related and similar species Intermediate Polypody (P. interjectum) was. The record for P. vulgare is probably in error for P. interjectum. A herbarium specimen has been retained to confirm this. Several species (including Petasites hybridus) only seen by Parker in SJ3513 (1992) have not been relocated, suggesting either a change in habitat since that time or the area was accidentally omitted. The quarry pool did not disclose any Potamogeton crispus, despite repeated grapnelling attempts. The species may have been hidden by the dominant stands of Potamogeton berchtoldii. A search was made for the Zannichellia palustris, in its previous site but this doughnut shaped pond had know almost completely dried up and held no aquatic or marginal vegetation; hopefully on rewetting it may reappear from the seed-bank. Several species have only ever been recorded once and doubts exist at whether they are even for Loton estate. Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) was recorded anonymously for the tetrad (SJ31M) which also includes the river Severn floodplains to the north of the B4393. The usual habitats for Filipendula ulmaria are considered to be damp or wet areas but Preston et al. (2003) state that it can also be found in drier conditions “such as N.-facing chalk grassland” so it might be possible that it exists on the site although it is intolerant of grazing. It was found to the south of the site growing along the road to the old windmill. Likewise the record for Yew (Taxus baccata), again anonymous for SJ31R, could place it in Rowton, Rowton Castle or in the wood to the extreme east of the estate. It is perfectly possible that these species could have been recorded here but it seems more likely they are for outside the estate. Corn Mint (Mentha arvensis) was also recorded anonymously from SJ31M and may have been recorded from the site previously. It occurs in “wet woodland clearings, field and pond sides” (Stace 2010), but is a poor competitor (Sinker et. al. 1985). Could it have been found growing in 11

the quarry woodland on the edges of the pools or in the grassland? The quarry pools are now highly competitive with Mentha aquatica and Willowherbs forming dense stands, so perhaps it has really been lost. Nationally there has been a decline for this species since the 1950s (Preston et al. 2003). The survey team did not have sufficient taxonomic skills to distinguish Potentilla anglica and Taraxacum laevigatum from other species present. Some species might have been mistaken for other species (e.g. Ranunculus bulbosus for R. acris/R. repens). The remaining losses are probably due to a lack of species identification skills or insufficient searching.

Summary of vegetation at Loton Deer Park Loton Deer Park and Quarry offer a wide diversity of habitats, from grassland and semi-natural woodland to man-made habitats such as the quarrying, race tracks and long demolished buildings. GRASSLAND: By far the most common habitat in the Deer park is the semi-natural well-grazed acid grassland. The main constituents of the sward are a varying mixture of Common Bent (Agrostis capillaris), Sweet Vernal-grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum), Quaking Grass (Briza media), Crested Dog’s-tail (Cynosurus cristatus), Sheep’s-fescue (Festuca ovina agg.), Red Fescue (F. rubra agg.), Yorkshire-fog (Holcus lanatus) and Yellow Oat-grass (Trisetum flavescens). Flowering plants species associated with these areas included Harebell (Campanula rotundifolia), Glaucous Sedge (Carex flacca), Prickly Sedge (Carex muricata ssp. pairae), Crosswort (Cruciata laevipes), Lady’s Bedstraw (Galium verum), Meadow Vetchling (Lathyrus pratensis), Rough Hawkbit (Leontodon hispidus), Field Wood-rush (Luzula campestris), Mouse-ear Hawkweed (Pilosella officinarum), Polygala vulgaris, Common Sorrel (Rumex acetosa), Thyme-leaved Speedwell (Veronica serpyllifolia). Throughout the grassland are patches of Hard Rush (Juncus inflexus), in the north-eastern parts of the deer park this understorey is overtopped by Bracken (Pteridium aquilinum). The shorter grazed areas contained a mixture of Aphanes arvensis, A. australis, Spring Sedge (Carex caryophyllea), Common Yellow-sedge (Carex demissa), Erodium cicutarium, Ornithopus perpusillus, Sheep’s Sorrel (Rumex acetosella), Taraxacum agg. (sp. aff. laevigatum), Wild Thyme (Thymus polytrichus) and Slender Speedwell (Veronica filiformis). Near Park Lodge there is an area of closer cropped (mown?) grassland containing the only site for Potentilla argentea in seminatural vegetation. The shorter grassland in the eastern end of the estate have extensive ant hills forming large hummocks, often interspersed are deer browsed low shrubs of Crataegus monogyna and Prunus spinosa. Although no NVC survey was undertaken during this year’s survey, it is clear that this shorter grassland is a good example of the U1 Festuca-Agrostis-Rumex community and probably the U1c Erodium cicutarium-Teesdalia nudicaulis subcommunity (although other subcommunities of this type are probably also present). U1 is a diverse grassland with an open sward, with small tussock forming grasses and abundant dicotyledons, many of them ephemerals. The dominant grasses are Festuca ovina (occasionally F. rubra) and Agrostis capillaris. Anthoxanthum odoratum and occasional Holcus lanatus can also be found though not in high numbers. The dicotyledons include Galium saxatile, G. verum, Lotus corniculatus, Pilosella officinarum, Plantago media, Rumex acetosella, Taraxacum laevigatum and, Thymus polytrichus. Low growing herbs such as Aphanes arvensis, Erodium cicutarium, Potentilla argentea, P. reptans, Sagina apetala and Veronica arvensis are also present. The U1c Erodium cicutarium-Teesdalia nudicaulis subcommunity is the richest of the six subcommunities with a characteristic ephemeral flora including Aira praecox, Aphanes arvensis, Erodium cicutarium, Erophila verna, Myosotis ramosissima, Ornithopus perpusillus and Veronica arvensis. Other less common constituents are Arenaria serpyllifolia sl., Veronica agrestis and the Sedum’s (S. acre and S. album). Summer desiccation is important to this community and water shortages particularly in spring and early summer can restrict growth, which helps keep the vegetation open. Many of the annual species (e.g. Aira praecox, Aphanes arvensis and, Veronica arvensis) take advantage of these short seasons by germinating late in the year and over-wintering (Rodwell 1992).

Geologically U1 grassland is typically from base-poor, oligotrophic (low nutrient) and often summer-parched soils, which rely on grazing and disturbance to maintain their vegetation. The majority of the grassland flora is calcifugous (Appendix 4) with an Ellenberg R value of between 4 and 6 (acid to weakly acid) e.g. Festuca ovina, Ornithopus perpusillus and, Rumex acetosella. The north-eastern parts of the deer park had several species which are strongly calcifugous with an R value of 3 (acid) e.g. Galium saxatile and Potentilla erecta. Some species are weakly calcicolous with R values of 7 e.g. Arenaria leptoclados, Briza media and Catapodium rigidum. Also in the north-eastern end of the deer park (and elsewhere) are two strongly calcicolous species (Cynoglossum officinale and Inula conyzae) which have high R values of 8. Potentilla erecta which is a strong calcifuge is not a constant in the U1 community only being found in U1e (Galium saxatile-Potentilla erecta subcommunity) (Rodwell 1992). There is disparity between having calcifugous and calcicolous species in close proximity especially as the underlying geography is calcareous as well as the remains of old buildings which could locally raise the pH. Although the underlying geology is different, the nearby hills of Craig Breidden have a similar if not more complex mix of calcicolous and calcifugous species, growing on basepoor but calcium rich soils (Jarvis 1974; Rodwell 1992). Jarvis (1974) proposed that this was due to a marked zonation of the roots of different species with the roots of calcifuges in the upper leached zones. The leaf litter from certain species (including Bracken) can influence the chemistry of the soil nearby, further decreasing the soil pH (Jarvis 1974; Owen et al. 1999). Lack of grazing from rabbits can change the composition of this community with the reduction or complete absence of species such as Galium saxatile. The sward also tightens up restricting and reducing the populations of dicotyledons, with the ephemeral flora being the first to suffer. Scuffing and disturbance from stock and rabbits (and perhaps movement of vehicles) provides new niches for ephemeral species as well as biennials such as Cynoglossum officinale. Many of the annuals (e.g. Sedum sp. and Pilosella officinarum) are avoided by Rabbits (Rodwell 1992). Damper grassland surrounding pools or ponds bore Alopecurus geniculatus, Cuckooflower (Cardamine pratensis) and Marsh Bedstraw (Galium palustre). Areas which either lacked adequate grazing or cutting turned up coarser grasses and sedges such as False Oat-grass (Arrhenatherum elatius), Hairy Sedge (Carex hirta), Cockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-foot (Dactylis glomerata), Tufted Hair-grass (Deschampsia cespitosa), Perennial Rye-grass (Lolium perenne) and Rough Meadow-grass (Poa trivialis). Flowering weedy species comprised Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata), Nipplewort (Lapsana communis) and Creeping Cinquefoil (Potentilla reptans). In the north-eastern parts of the park, well grazed specimens of Weld (Reseda luteola) dominated a small area. Well trodden track entrances and gateways gave up the pungent bouquets of Lesser Swine-cress (Lepidium didymus) and Pineappleweed (Matricaria discoidea), alongside Annual Meadow-grass (Poa annua). Occasional groups of Squirreltail Fescue (Vulpia bromoides) and Ratâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-tail Fescue (Vulpia myuros) could be found seeded into gaps by the side of racetracks between the tarmac and aggregates or in rough tracks, an associates of these species but much more common is Procumbent Pearlwort (Sagina procumbens). 14

PARKLAND TREES: The grasslands are punctuated by specimen trees; perhaps the most magnificent of these and providing a landmark visible from the B4393 is the Sequoiadendron giganteum. Two large stands (SJ356138) of Cedars (Cedrus atlantica and C. atlantica ‘Glauca’) make an impressive site as you gain height from the main gates. Other trees of interest include Pinus wallichiana with its superb cones and long drooping needles; and Acer macrophyllum with its enormous leaves and curious bristly winged seeds. Other species planted throughout included a variegated Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus cultivar), Aesculus hippocastanum, Castanea sativa, Beech (Fagus sylvatica and F. sylvatica ‘Purpurea’), Aspen (Populus tremula), Quercus robur, Q. x rosacea and Lime (Tilia x europaea). Surrounding the lower pools are many large specimens of Populus xcanadensis laden with Mistletoe. Other species seen parasitised by Mistletoe included Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior and Crataegus monogyna, its native host. It will be interesting to see if as the Robinia pseudoacacia matures it too becomes parasitised. Interspersed throughout the park are plantation woodlands, mainly coniferous they contain a mixture of European Larch (Larix decidua), Norway Spruce (Picea abies), Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris) and Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), with the occasional self-seeded Ilex aquifolium and Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia). A recent planting of Prunus cerasifera and P. domestica has been made in the north-eastern end of the park. MANMADE HABITATS: Running throughout the whole estate are several man-made habitats, firstly the site is criss-crossed with ‘race tracks’ used for the hill climb, rougher compacted aggregate paths and drives, walls and remains of old army buildings (Shropshire Geology 2010). These provide a mixture of habitats often locally altering the soils with lime and other alkaline building materials. The Alberbury Breccia walls support sporadic but large colonies of Black Spleenwort (Asplenium adiantum-nigrum), also present was Wall-rue (Asplenium ruta-muraria) and Asplenium trichomanes ssp. quadrivalens. One species (Cotoneaster horizontalis) was only found as two small plants growing on this habitat. The old tracks made up of coarse aggregate (perhaps from the nearby quarry at the Breiddens), made ideal habitat for those species which require disturbance but not overcrowding such as Slender Sandwort (Arenaria leptoclados), Blinks (Montia fontana ssp. chondrosperma), Marsh Cudweed (Gnaphalium uliginosum), Ornithopus perpusillus, Potentilla argentea, Sagina apetala, Biting Stonecrop (Sedum acre) and Sand Spurrey (Spergularia rubra). A cutting through the rock to the far eastern end of the estate near Park Lodge (SJ363130), provided a good habitat for calcicolous ferns including Asplenium adiantum-nigrum and A. trichomanes ssp. quadrivalens alongside Potentilla argentea (associates include Catapodium rigidum and Myosotis ramosissima) on the top of the cutting in the thin soil. In the northwest of the deer park was an area of woodland with a cluster of disused prefabs and associated detritus, the roofs of these formed ideal habitat for Herb-Robert (Geranium robertianum) and Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea). Good colonies of Male Fern (Dryopteris filixmas) and Soft Shield-fern (Polystichum setiferum) grew round the bases of these and nearby trees. 15

This plantation woodland yielded Aethusa cynapium, Calystegia silvatica, white flowered Geranium robertianum, and Oxalis acetosella. ROCK EXPOSURES: Rock exposures appear throughout the deer park and a good display of White Stonecrop (Sedum album) could be found at SJ357137. The skeletal soils atop the rock outcrops contain colonies of Catapodium rigidum, Myosotis ramosissima and Potentilla sterilis with good patches of Polytrichum and other interesting bryophytes. AQUATIC HABITATS: There are several aquatic habitats on the site, from a dried up pool (SJ362135) with no marginal or aquatic flora, to still flourishing pools. The medium sized pool on the top of the hill (SJ346136) was by the presence of the footprints widely used by the deer; this poaching had provided an ideal habit for Eleocharis palustris, Lythrum portula and Ranunculus aquatilis sl.; the deeper water yielding Potamogeton natans and Sparganium erectum. Not an aquatic but found above the waterline on the banks of this pool could be found Polygonum arenastrum. A series of pools run down to the bottom car park from near Loton Park Bungalow, the bottom pool now appears to be totally dried up and yielded no aquatic or marginal species. The other pools were much more interesting; the middle pool (SJ356143) had Equisetum fluviatile in profusion alongside Eleocharis palustris, Glyceria fluitans, Mentha aquatica and Persicaria amphibia. The pools were surrounded by a mixture of Poplars (Populus sp.) and Alnus glutinosa, Sharp-flowered Rush (Juncus acutiflorus), Jointed Rush (Juncus articulatus) and Soft Rush (Juncus effusus) are marginal species common to many pools. The quarry offered a mixture of overgrown shaded habitats and open water in full sun at certain times of the day. Good populations of Chara vulgaris took advantage of this extra sunlight growing on the northern banks, interspersed within where hanks of the moss Fontinalis antipyretica. Out in the deeper water forming extensive domed carpets was Potamogeton berchtoldii. On the southern side of the pool a single large plant of White Water-lily (Nymphaea alba) could be found. Rafts of Lemna trisulca had been pushed by the breeze to the north-western side, although it was present throughout. On the sunnier northern edge were the occasional Alisma plantago-aquatica, Callitriche stagnalis and Veronica catenata growing in the exposed mud. Further up the banks grew several Sedges (Carex paniculata and C. pseudocyperus) and Common Figwort (Scrophularia nodosa). The south western end with the inflow to the pool formed a swampy vegetation with Mentha aquatica and Sparganium erectum. Above the main quarry pool was a secluded second pool, almost completely taken over by Typha latifolia and Mentha aquatica with occasional clumps of Nasturtium officinale and Hypericum tetrapterum. Round the southern edge of the pool on the drier banks grew a large colony of Inula conyzae, which could be found growing further along the tracks. Dr. A.K. Thorne in her NVC survey (Wrench 2007; Thorne 2010) of the quarry determined the pools as being eutrophic by averaging the Ellenberg values for nitrogen of the several aquatic species found (Alisma plantago-aquatica, Potamogeton berchtoldii and, P. crispus). Despite not finding P. crispus, (and adding the bryophyte Fontinalis antipyretica) this year the trophic status has not changed. QUARRIES: The quarry woodland was largely made up of Ash (Fraxinus excelsior), Quercus robur and, Wych Elm (Ulmus glabra). A very large and old Small-leaved Lime (Tilia cordata) was present in the northwest corner of the quarry woodland. The footpath running through the quarry has separate avenues of Populus xcanadensis and Fagus sylvatica. A good ground flora can be found by 16

the footpaths in the less disturbed parts of the site with Adoxa moschatellina, Circaea lutetiana, Lesser Celandine (Ficaria verna), Wild Strawberry (Fragaria vesca), Bluebell (Hyacinthoides nonscripta), Hypericum hirsutum, Yellow Pimpernel (Lysimachia nemorum), Ranunculus auricomus, Bloody Dock (Rumex sanguineus), Wood Speedwell (Veronica montana) and Viola odorata. Cowslip (Primula veris) could be found on the northern and eastern margins of the woodland benefiting from the higher light levels. Primrose (Primula vulgaris) was found throughout the woodland and quarry. The quarry walls were adorned with several fern species (Asplenium scolopendrium, Scaly Malefern (Dryopteris affinis agg.), Broad Buckler-fern (D. dilatata), D. filix-mas, and Polystichum setiferum and the occasional Wall Lettuce (Mycelis muralis). Polypodium interjectum could be found as an occasional epiphyte. A large shrub of Spindle (Euonymus europaeus) presumably set by a bird grew at the south-western end. The quarry floor varied floristically depending on the amount of soil and moisture, in the southwest end the ground flora was poorer mainly dominated by Dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mercury (Mercurialis perennis), as the ground got wetter Ranunculus acris, Brooklime (Veronica beccabunga) and started to grow alongside the stream. Occasional plants of Carex otrubae and C. remota could be found here. The canopy in the quarry was dominated by Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior and in the central wetter areas Salix species. Many of the larger trees had been wind thrown exposing there root discs which were soon colonised by ferns and other species. Under the Salix there was a peaty deep soil although this was often very poor it yielded Ajuga reptans, Galium palustre ssp. palustre and Water Figwort (Scrophularia auriculata). Some areas proved impenetrable with a mixture of lower growing willows, Bramble (Rubus fruticosus) often joined in the more fertile areas with dominant stands of Nettle (Urtica dioica). In areas the soil was very thin with rock exposures still present, the accompanying tree canopy was light allowing species to take hold such as Ajuga reptans, various Epilobiums, Herb-Robert (Geranium robertianum), (Three-nerved Sandwort) Moehringia trinervia and Veronica montana. On the southern walls tufa beds could be found attached to the quarry wall, these did not appear to have any associated flora although the bryophytes below them appeared interesting, including occasional carpets of the Tree Moss (Climacium dendroides). Above the quarry a path lead past the second pool and on to many introduced species such as Prunus laurocerasus and Snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus), as well as many native but obviously planted trees. The quarry woodland has a rich bryological and pteridological flora, the ground flora in the quarry is not particularly rich at the moment and appears to have declined in recent years resulting in the loss of the orchids and several other species when compared with previous surveys. The ground flora near the public footpath in the quarry woodland is richer with fairly typical calcareous species such as Hypericum hirsutum and Viola odorata and elsewhere Inula conyzae. Unfortunately the quarry appears to be much more overgrown than previous recorders visits (pers. comm. Dr. A.K. Thorne and Dr. S.J. Whild), this is not helped by the large number of fallen self-seeded Ash trees, and removal of some of these might help open up the light levels for ground floor. The disturbance 17

and increased light levels created by this removal could allow the return of species such as Ranunculus parviflorus. Two separate and quite distinctive sites can be found to north-west of the main quarry, these are deep quarries with smooth flat rock faces, and some large established trees round the margins (Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior and Ulmus glabra). With broad open areas in the middle, again the moss Climacium dendroides was dominant in the ground flora alongside Mentha aquatica, Juncus inflexus and Hypericum tetrapterum. One of these quarries was the only site for Agrimonia eupatoria, dominating a small damp clearing, alongside various Epilobiums. The surrounding woodland was rich in fern flora and bryophytes. Dr. A.K. Thorne undertook a thorough NVC survey of the quarry with its associated woodland and floor communities (Wrench 2007; Thorne 2010). She identified the dominant woodland community as being Fraxinus excelsior – Acer campestre – Mercurialis perennis woodland Geranium robertianum sub-community (W8e). This type of woodland is dominated by Fraxinus excelsior, with this particular sub-community having a high proportion of Acer pseudoplatanus and Ulmus glabra. Other constants include the eponymous Mercurialis perennis and Geranium robertianum. She noted some mature specimens of Oak in the south and a small area of conifer plantation (presumably that to the northeast end of the wood). Other quadrats were placed in wetter areas getting identifying them as either Typha latifolia swamp, Mentha aquatica sub-community (S12b) or Holcus lanatus – Juncus effusus rush pasture, Juncus inflexus sub-community (MG10b). At the present time visually these areas would appear to fit the MG10b community best with their dominant covers of Juncus effusus, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis stolonifera and Ranunculus repens with strong presence of Juncus inflexus. The quadrats taken in open areas with rock slabs underneath produced a mixture of communities with the most likely being the Agrostis stolonifera – Ranunculus repens community (OV28). It would appear from the target notes produced with the survey that the quarry floor is less open than previously perhaps resulting in the loss of the Orchids (Dactylorhiza spp. and Listera ovata). Further old quarries not included in Dr. A.K. Thorne’s survey could be found to the far west of the deer park. Quite shallow workings they were very exposed with only occasional tree growth above them and although they had long ceased working areas of exposed rock outcrop and scree were still present. It was in this area that the Cynoglossum was relocated and Crepis capillaris found. Particularly good colonies of Arenaria leptoclados and Aphanes could be found here.

Discussion and Future management DISCUSSION: It is clear that Loton Deer Park and Alberbury Quarry have many important habitats both locally and regionally. The site has several local and national Habitat Action Plan (HAP); Lowland Dry Acid Grassland; Parkland and Veteran Trees; Standing Open Water; Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland. Botanically it contains no local or national Biodiversity Action Plan species, but the following nationally scarce, rare exist species occur… Lowland Dry Acid Grassland: Nationally acid grassland is declining and in Shropshire the proportion of Lowland Dry Acid Grassland is small, making it a priority for habitat conservation. Is not only important botanically but also for invertebrates particularly bees, wasps, grasshoppers and butterflies. It is also important for waxcaps and other grassland fungi that require lower nutrient levels (Thorne, 2009). Factors which can negatively affect this type of grassland include the scrubbing over or swamping by bracken etc.; over or under-grazing; agricultural improvement and uncontrolled planting of trees. In Loton Deer Park the acid grassland is forming part of a mosaic with coarse grassland, bracken, scrub and sub-shrub vegetation; lack of management could allow these habitats to dominate at the expense of the acid grassland. It would appear that the rabbit population in the deer park is very low compared to 1981 when Mrs S. Stafford noted that the area surrounding the Cynoglossum officinale was “Rabbit infested”. Cynoglossum officinale is a species which can ‘disappear’ for many years before springing back up (pers. comms. Whild), but it does require disturbance for it to germinate, and the lack of rabbit burrows, scrapes etc. are reducing the number of seed beds available. During the survey very little sign of digging or disturbance by rabbits (or other mammals) in the grassland was observed. The rabbit population is certainly far lower than it was historically, a bag of around 500-750 rabbits from five guns had been regularly recorded during the 1920s. A decline since 1954 due to Myxomatosis wiped out a large population including sports with black fur, since that time the population has steadily increased (pers. comm. Sir Michael Leighton). Rabbit activity has been shown to be greater after bracken control treatments were implemented (Marrs et al. 1999). Reasons for the decline in the rabbit population could be due to the ongoing disease Myxomatosis or predation by what appears to be a healthy population of badgers. Rodwell (1992) states that a lack of grazing and demise of rabbits can dramatically affect the quality of U1 grassland, with it becoming fragmentary and only surviving on pathways, and around rock outcrops; although it can utilise artificial habitats to establish on. This is evident in the deer park, where areas of good grassland can be found, then poorer stands with the better bits being nearer paths or rock outcrops or on the old hard standings of the buildings which prevent the ranker vegetation getting a hold. A tendency to limit necessary appropriate disturbance can actually be a threat to this habitat (Rodwell et al. 2007). Management considerations:  Continue close grazing with deer, to maintain short sward to prevent vegetation becoming rank.  Control of Bracken, keep stands at existing sizes or preferably reduce to allow regeneration of U1 grassland.  Cease planting of trees into good U1 grassland.  Monitor levels of grazing, trampling, scuffing. Indeed the trampling by humans if light can in fact be beneficial to this community.. (Rodwell et al. 2007; Thorne, 2009). 19

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Monitor rabbit population, allow levels to increase particular in areas of good grassland.

Parkland and Veteran Trees: Veteran trees and parkland landscapes as well as being aesthetically pleasing are valuable for a wide range of species including many dead-wood specialist invertebrates as well as lichen, fungi, bats and bird species. The proximity of unimproved grassland and wetlands allows specialist invertebrates to complete their lifecycles. Loton deer park contains a wide variety of native and non-native parkland trees of varying ages and sizes providing habitats for many species including prominent stands of Mistletoe. Factors which can negatively affect this habitat include the felling of trees on safety or tidiness grounds; clearance of fallen deadwood; inappropriate or unskilled tree surgery; inappropriate grazing levels or damage to tree bark by herbivores; congregation of livestock around base of trees; compaction of soil surrounding trees (Lancaster 2008). Management considerations:  Inappropriate grazing  Soil compaction and congregation of livestock whilst minor at present and not apparently a problem should be monitored.  Where appropriate leave fallen dead wood on site as a habitat.  Continue planting new generations of native species, avoiding weedy species. Only planting where it is not detrimental to other habitats particularly the acid grassland. Standing Open Water: Within Shropshire the numbers of ponds are decreasing and they are an important part of the natural environment, providing homes to many invertebrates as well as increasing the botanical diversity within the site. The fact that some of these pools dried out periodically can be of benefit to some amphibians and invertebrates. Factors which can negatively affect this habitat include water pollution (enrichment from run-off); change of land-use within the catchment area; water abstraction; fragmentation of habitat; neglect and lack of appropriate management leading to siltation and succession; introduction of non-native species (Anon, 2008). Management considerations:  Allow the continued poaching of the margins of the ponds in the deer park by the deer to promote new habitats for plant and invertebrate species.  Removal of some of the coarser vegetation from the upper pool in the quarry (SJ36151384) to prevent succession (at present almost a total monoculture of Typha latifolia).  Removal of some of the coarser vegetation from the upper pool in the deer park to prevent succession.  Sympathetic removal of some of the vegetation from the pools in the north-western parts of the deer park to prevent succession. Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland: Parts of the woodland surrounding the quarry (particularly those to the north-east and north-west, which are in best condition) are succeeding back towards semi-natural broad-leaved woodland and this should be encouraged. Whilst the ground flora is not exceptionally rich it does have potential to improve over time. The plantation woodlands throughout the deer park are of little value botanically (although a full survey of the ground flora was not possible at this time), but are useful for their bird and possibly invertebrate interest. Management considerations: 20

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Instead of planting non-native shrubs (Prunus laurocerasus, Symphoricarpos albus) plant native species and forms with equal wildlife potential (Crataegus monogyna, Euonymus europaeus, Malus sylvestris etc.). Preferably sourced locally. Maintain woodland rides suitable for invertebrates particularly butterflies. Coppice Hazel on rotation.

Alberbury Quarry: The quarries are of importance geologically and they also have many desirable botanical species including eight woodland axiophytes. Whilst the ground flora is not exceptionally rich at the present time it does have potential to improve over time. The apparent increase in large saplings on the quarry floor is of concern, particularly in the sites for the Orchids and Adder’s-tongue. Species such as Aphanes arvensis, which although present seems to be struggling could be encouraged by the removal of these saplings and the associated increase in light levels. Management considerations (all to be undertaken with guidance from the Shropshire Geological Society):  Preserve geological interest.  Removal of some of the wind thrown trees and scrub clearance, allowing light to reach quarry floor, whilst leaving some fallen material in place.  Removal of fallen tree material from main pool.  Scrub clearance around boggy areas to allow light to reach quarry floor and prevent loss of floral interest.  Removal of saplings (Acer pseudoplatanus) that are starting to colonise the open areas in the middle of the quarries in north-west corner.  Continue removal of ivy shading stone walls.  Limit tree planting to boundaries of quarry (and only using native or local species).  Periodic disturbance of the quarry floor, to prevent un-checked natural succession  Monitoring of the Russian Vine, at present only a single specimen but if increased could have a negative impact on the adjacent flora.

Future work FUTURE WORK: A full NVC survey of the Deer Park would be extremely desirable to ascertain the condition and quality of the acid grassland, such close working would also probably turn up several of the grassland species omitted from the current survey. Several questions remain to be answered:  Has bracken increased or decreased on the site in recent years?  When did the population of rabbits first start to decline?

References 

ANON. (2006). Standing Open Water Habitat Action Plan.

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(http://www.naturalshropshire.org.uk/Portals/0/Current%20BAP/2008%20HAPs/SBAP%202006%20%20standing%20open%20water%20%28meres,%20mossess%20and%20canals%29.pdf) (9/10). BEAN, W.J. (1970). Trees and Shrubs hardy in the British Isles Volume 1 A-C. 8th Edition. But;er and

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Tanner, London. BOTANICAL SOCIETY OF THE BRITISH ISLES. (2010). Axiophytes xls table. Botanical Society of the British Isles. FRYER, J. AND HYLMÖ, B. (2009). Cotoneasters: A comprehensive Guide to Shrubs for Flowers, Fruit, and Foliage. Timber Press, London. HERBARIA@HOME (2010). Herbaria@Home Database (http://herbariaunited.org/collector). (8/10). HILL, M.O., PRESTON, C.D., AND ROY, D.B. (2004). ‘PLANTATT: Attributes of British and Irish Plants: Status, size, life history, geography and habitats’. Biological Records Centre, NERC Centre for Ecology and Hydrology. HILL, D; FASHAM, M; TUCKER, G; SHEWRY, M; AND SHAW, G. (2005) Handbook of Biodiversity Methods. Cambridge University Press. HUBBARD, C.E. (1984). Grasses: A guide to their Structure, Identification, Uses and Distribution in the British Isles. Penguin, London. JARVIS, S.C. (1974). Soil factors affecting the distribution of plant communities on the cliffs of Craig Breidden, Montgomeryshire. Journal of Ecology. 62, 721-733. KENT, D.H. AND ALLEN, D.E. (1984). British and Irish Herbaria. London. LANCASTER, F. (2008). Lowland Wood Pasture, Parkland and Veteran Trees Habitat Action Plan.

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heathland. VIII. The regeneration of the heathland community after 18 years of continued bracken control or 6 years of control followed by recovery. Journal of Applied Ecology. 35, 857-870 MERCER, ID. (1959). The Geography of the Alberbury Breccia. Field Studies. Vol 1, Number 1. MITCHELL, A. (1974). Field Guide Trees: Britain and Europe. Collins, London. OWEN, K.M.; MARRS, R.H.; SNOW, C.S.R and EVANS, C.E. (1999). Soil acidification – the use of sulphur and acidic plant materials to acidify arable soils for the recreation of heathland and acidic grassland at Minsmere, UK. Biological Conservation. 87, 105-121. POLAND, J. (2009). The Vegetative Key to the British Flora. Private. PRESTON, C.D.; PEARMAN, D.A. AND DINES, T.D. (2003). New Atlas of the British and Irish Flora. Oxford University Press, Oxford. ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. (2009). Plant Finder 2009-2010. Dorling Kindersley, London. RICH T.C.G. & JERMY A.C. 1998 Plant Crib. Botanical Society of the British Isles, London. RODWELL, J.S. (1992). British Plant Communities Volume 3 – Grasslands and montane communities. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. RODWELL, J.S.; MORGAN, V.; JEFFERSON, R.G. AND MOSS, D. (2007). The European context of British Lowland Grassland. JNCC Report 394. ROSE, F. AND O’REILLY, C. (2006). The Wildflower Key. Warne, London. SHROPSHIRE BOTANICAL SOCIETY (2010). Shropshire Flora Database (http@//www.shropsfloradata.org.uk). (9/10). SHROPSHIRE GEOLOGY. (2010). Shropshire Geology Website. (http://www.shropshiregeology.org.uk) (8/10). SINKER, C.A.; PACKHAM, J.R.; TRUEMAN, I.C.; OSWALD, P.; PERRING, F.H. AND PRESTWOOD, W.V. (1991). Ecological Flora of the Shropshire Region. Shropshire Wildlife Trust, Shrewsbury.

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STACE, C. (1999). Field Flora of the British Isles. 2nd Ed. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. STACE, C. (2010). New Flora of the British Isles. 3rd Ed. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. STEWART, A.; PEARMAN, D.A.; & PRESTON, C.D. (1994). Scarce Plants in Britain. JNCC, Peterborough. STONES IN ARCHAEOLOGY DATABASE (2010). Stones in Archaeology Database. (http://ads.ahds.ac.uk/catalogue/archive/stones_ahrb_2005/cfm/HomePage.cfm) (8/10). THORNE, K. (2009). Lowland Acid Grassland Habitat Action Plan. (http://www.naturalshropshire.org.uk/Portals/0/SBAP%202009/SBAP_Lowland_Dry_Acid_Grassland_2009.p df) (9/10). THORNE, K. (2010). Data from the Shropshire Quarries survey. WHILD, S.J. AND LOCKTON, A.J. (2005). New Flora of Attingham Park. Shropshire Botanical Society,

Shropshire. WHILD, S.J. AND LOCKTON, A.J. (2006). Rare Plants of Shropshire. 3rd Ed. Shropshire Botanical Society, Shropshire. WHILD, S.J. AND LOCKTON, A.J. (2006). The Flora of Haughmond Hill. Shropshire Botanical Society, Shropshire. WHILD, S.J. AND LOCKTON, A.J. (2009). The Flora of The Stiperstones. Shropshire Botanical Society, Shropshire. WRENCH, D.H. (2007). Shropshire Quarries: Positive Action for the Future. Shropshire County Council, Shropshire.

Acknowledgements Records by the following recorders have been used:Mr J.F.M. Dovaston Mr P. Oswald Mrs P. Parker Rev. W. Phillips Mr W. Prestwood

Mrs S. Stafford Dr. A.K. Thorne Prof. I.C. Trueman Mr S. Turner Sir. J.B.L. Warren

Dr S.J. Whild Mr E.H. Wolfe

Thanks are due to: Sir Michael Leighton for access to Loton Deer Park. Mags Cousins for help in organising the initial survey for the Shropshire Botanical Society. Shropshire Botanical Society for providing access to previous records. Pete Boardman for help with organising the outings. Kate Thorne and Sarah Whild for comments on there previous records and work at Loton Park and Alberbury Quarry. Fran Lancaster from Shropshire County Council and Robin Mager from Shropshire Wildlife Trust for information on Alberbury Quarry, its geology and biological records. Sue Swindells for kindly proof reading the draft.

Appendix 1: Annotated species list This is a list of species recorded at Loton Park, with brief descriptions of their abundance and distribution on the site. Species which weren’t seen this year are indicated by a dagger †, the last known record and recorder are listed. These are treated as losses in our analysis, although of course some of them could return or be found again. Species that are new being found only in this current survey are indicated by an asterisk *. Taxonomy follows Stace (2010). Nomenclature for cultivars follows RHS (2009). All plants native unless indicated otherwise (Hill, Preston and Roy, 2004).

Characeae * Chara vulgaris, Common Stonewort. Growing in large mats around the north shore of the pool in Alberbury Quarry.

Ophioglossaceae † Ophioglossum vulgatum Adder’stongue. Many plant at SJ361139 in 1979 by Mrs S. Stafford and again in 1980, though fewer plants. Perhaps overlooked or shaded out from site.

Equisetaceae *Equisetum arvense, Field Horsetail: Occasional, SJ3514. * Equisetum fluviatile, Water Horsetail: common in large pool SJ3514.

Dennstaedtiaceae Pteridium aquilinum, Bracken: Widespread and recorded in all 1km2. Occasional in most areas but forming dense stands particularly in the eastern end of the park.

Aspleniaceae Asplenium adiantum-nigrum, Black Spleenwort. Several plants growing in cutting at far east side of park near Park Lodge (SJ364130). Previously only recorded in Alberbury Quarry by Dr. A.K. Thorne. Asplenium ruta-muraria, Wall Rue. Recorded in SJ3513 in 1992 and 1996. Found this year in growing in walls in SJ3513,

SJ3514, SJ3613 and quarry woodland (SJ3613). Asplenium scolopendrium, Hart’stongue. First recorded in 1905 by Rev. W. Phillips. Recorded this year in SJ3514, SJ3613 on walls, rock outcrops and quarry (SJ3513, SJ3613, SJ3614). Asplenium trichomanes ssp. quadrivalens, Maidenhair Spleenwort. Recorded as Asplenium trichomanes ss. by Dr. A.K. Thorne in Alberbury Quarry in 2006. This year several plants growing in cutting at far east side of park near Park Lodge (SJ364130). Growing on the park walls on the northeast side of the park walls leading from the quarry to Park Lodge (SJ3613). Also present on quarry walls (southern side).

Woodsiaceae * Athyrium filix-femina, Lady-fern. A single plant found in SJ3513 growing inside a tyre wall, next to race track.

Dryopteridaceae Dryopteris affinis agg. Scaly Malefern: SJ360138 by Prof. I.C. Trueman, 1988 and SJ3613, Alberbury Quarry by Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006. Only seen this year growing in quarry, rare. Dryopteris dilatata, Broad Bucklerfern. As previously SJ3613 in Alberbury Quarry. In woodland, SJ3514. Occasional.

Dryopteris filix-mas, Male-fern. No change, SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613, SJ3614 including quarry. Common. * Polystichum setiferum, Soft Shield-fern. Rare in quarry woodland growing on rock faces (west and south-western; south side) also in north-western quarry (SJ36201374). A large colony was found near disused buildings in the woodland to the northwest of the deer park (SJ35341439).

Polypodiaceae * Polypodium interjectum, Intermediate Polypody. Identification confirmed by Dr. S.J. Whild. Growing on rock faces at eastern end of quarry, also present as an epiphyte on Ash there. † Polypodium vulgare, Common Polypody. SJ3613 by Dr A.K. Thorne in 2006.

Pinaceae * Cedrus atlantica, Atlas Cedar. Several very large trees in SJ3513. Introduced. * Cedrus atlantica ‘Glauca’, Grey Atlas Cedar. Several very large trees in SJ3513. Introduced. Larix decidua, European Larch. Widely planted often in large groups. Picea abies, Norway Spruce. Planted in parkland, plantation woodlands and quarry woodland (SJ3513, SJ3613). Introduced. †Pinus nigra, Austrian Pine. Recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006 in SJ3613. Introduced. Pinus sylvestris, Scots Pine. Very common, planted in parkland, quarry woodland (north-eastern end) and in plantation woodland. Both mature and young

trees present. Both mature and young trees present. Introduced. * Pinus wallichiana, Bhutan Pine. A single specimen tree with magnificent foliage and cones planted at SJ35631369. Introduced. Pseudotsuga menziesii, Douglas Fir. First recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in Alberbury Quarry in 2006. Widely planted throughout estate as individual trees and plantation specimens (SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613). Introduced. * Sequoia sempervirens, Coast Redwood. Three medium aged trees planted on the north-eastern edge of footpath leading north to road from public footpath in Quarry woodland (SJ36311384). Conf. Dr. S.J. Whild. Introduced. *Sequoiadendron giganteum, Wellingtonia. Superb individual in SJ3513. Lone young individual planted with Sequoia (SJ36311384). Another much younger individual at SJ36311384 with Sequoia sempervirens. Conf. Dr. S.J. Whild. Introduced. † Taxus baccata, Yew. Recorded anonymously in 1992 to tetrad level (SJ31R). Possibly not in Loton Deer Park.

Nymphaeaceae Nymphaea alba, White Water-lily. A single plant growing in the pool in Alberbury Quarry.

Ranunculaceae † Caltha palustris, Marsh-marigold. In Alberbury Quarry Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006. Ficaria (Ranunculus) verna, Lesser Celandine. Found throughout in suitable habitats except SJ3612 (which wasn’t surveyed until late in the season, so may 26

have been overlooked). The ssp. fertilis (Syn. ssp. ficaria) was recorded in SJ3514. Ranunculus acris, Meadow Buttercup. Much under-recorded this year perhaps in error for R. repens. Previously recorded in Quarry and parkland. * Ranunculus aquatilis sl., Common Water-crowfoot. Found in damp mud by pool in deer park (SJ35691367) and on north side of quarry pool (SJ3613). Neither site in flower so full identification not possible. *Ranunculus auricomus, Goldilocks. In woodland near Quarry, one patch (SJ36301362). † Ranunculus bulbosus, Bulbous Buttercup. Recorded Prof I.C. Trueman in SJ3613 in 1988 and by Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006 in Quarry. Ranunculus flammula, Lesser Spearwort. Previously in Quarry, this year in SJ3513. † Ranunculus parviflorus, Smallflowered Buttercup. Recorded by Mrs S. Stafford in SJ363136 and Mr P.H. Oswald in SJ360139, both in 1976. Again in SJ363137 by Mrs P. Parker in 1991 Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006. Ranunculus repens, Creeping Buttercup: widespread throughout.

Grossulariaceae * Ribes nigrum, Black Currant. Found growing on quarry floor (SJ3613). * Ribes uva-crispa, Gooseberry. New to the site found in woodland (SJ3613) and quarry near main pool.

Saxifragaceae

Saxifraga tridactylites, Rue-leaved Saxifrage. First recorded by Mrs P. Parker in 1991 in SJ3613, re-found there by Dr. S.J. Whild (1996) and Dr. A.K. Thorne (2006). Found this year in SJ3514 and SJ3613, growing on sparse soil on tops of rock outcrops (SJ3514) and on walls to east (SJ3613).

Crassulaceae * Sedum acre, Biting Stonecrop. In SJ3513 and SJ3613. * Sedum album, White Stonecrop. Growing in rock outcrops (SJ3513 and SJ3613) generally facing south to southwest.

Fabaceae Lathyrus pratensis, Meadow Vetchling. Widespread in grassland throughout deer park and quarry. Lotus corniculatus, Common Bird’sfoot-trefoil. Extremely common in grassland in deer park and quarry. Medicago lupulina, Black Medick. First recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in the Quarry (SJ3613). Found this year to be common in SJ3513, SJ3514m SJ3613. * Ornithopus perpusillus, Bird’s-foot. New to the site (SJ36131368) growing in shallow soil atop a rock outcrop. Probably missed previously due to its small size. * Robinia pseudoacacia, False Acacia. A single specimen planted near to the main gates. Introduced. Trifolium dubium, Lesser Trefoil. Only found in SJ3613, perhaps under-recorded due to confusion with Medicago lupulina. Much discussion ensued over the correct identity of this specimen, eventually diagnostics confirmed the identification which was also backed up by a previous 27

record by Prof I.C. Trueman in the same square.

the deer park wall at (SJ35851417) with

Trifolium repens, White Clover. Widespread.

Crataegus monogyna, Hawthorn. Occasional in hedgerows, plantation areas and in grassland. Found in every square.

* Ulex europaeus, Gorse. Single plants seen in SJ3513 in grassland to the south of the park. Vicia sativa, Common Vetch. Found in SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613. Recorded as ssp. nigra (SJ3514, SJ3613) and ssp. segetalis (SJ3613). Vicia sepium, Bush Vetch. Recorded in SJ3613 and along top path above quarry.

Polygalaceae Polygala vulgaris, Common Milkwort. Recorded by Prof I.C. Trueman in 1988, still there.

Rosaceae Agrimonia eupatoria, Agrimony. Previously only recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in SJ3613 in 2006. Only seen this year in SJ36061396 in north-western quarry, tens of plants. Aphanes arvensis, Parsley-piert. Growing in short grassland and track edges (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). Also found once on quarry floor (SJ36191383) although getting swamped by coarser vegetation. Previously only recorded at the aggregate level. Aphanes australis, Slender Parsleypiert. Growing alongside Aphanes arvensis (SJ3514, SJ3613) and also in SJ3513. First recorded not at the aggregate level by Prof I.C. Trueman in SJ3613 in 1988. * Cotoneaster horizontalis, Wall Cotoneaster. Living up to its common name two small plants found growing on the top of

Asplenium ruta-muraria.

Crataegus xmedia (C. monogyna x C. laevigata). Occasionally planted in hedgerows or individuals in SJ3513 and SJ3514. Identification determined by Mr M. F. Godfrey. â&#x20AC; Filipendula ulmaria, Meadowsweet. Recorded anonymously in 1992 as a tetrad record (SJ31M). Possibly missed in this survey but the tetrad includes part of the floodplain of the river Severn which is a much more likely site than any of the areas of the Deer Park. Fragaria vesca, Wild Strawberry. First recorded by Prof I.C. Trueman in SJ3613. Still present in grassland edges, quarry and rock outcrops in shade (SJ3513). Geum urbanum, Wood Avens. Found in SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613 and SJ3614. Malus sylvestris, Crab Apple. Growing in woodland in quarry. â&#x20AC; Potentilla anglica, Trailing Tormentil. Only ever recorded by Prof I.C. Trueman in SJ3613. * Potentilla anserina, Silverweed. Found occasionally in coarser grassland and trodden areas in SJ3613 and quarry (SJ3613). Potentilla argentea, Hoary Cinquefoil. First recorded by Mrs S. Stafford in SJ3514, 1979. Also previously recorded in SJ3513 and SJ3613. This year only recorded in SJ3513, SJ3613. It would appear that the species has been lost from SJ3514, the record by Stafford (SJ359141) was probably the same site as re28

found by Mr S. R. Turner in 1986 (SJ35851405). This area does not know appear suitable for the species having become coarser grassland. A record by Mr S. Turner (SJ35901395) could not be relocated despite the track being walked twice, although it was recorded nearby. Several new sites within SJ3513 and SJ3613 where located (a total of 14 1m2 records being made). The population looks very healthy with some 1m squares having in excess of twenty plants plus many seedlings. Habitats usually verges and centres of asphalt tracks, aged aggregate paths, hard standings (old building foundations?). and short grassland. Only found in a ‘natural’ habitat of short grassland over rock outcrop (SJ363130) and near Park Lodge (SJ364131). Potentilla erecta, Tormentil. Only recorded by Prof I.C. Trueman in 1988 (SJ3613). Only recorded from SJ3513, SJ3613, probably under-recorded. Potentilla reptans, Creeping Cinquefoil. Common to all squares. Potentilla sterilis, Barren Strawberry. As Potentilla reptans. * Prunus avium, Wild Cherry. A mixture of planted and self-sown trees in parkland and plantations (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613).

or Pseudotsuga. Planted in woodland by path above quarry (SJ3613, SJ3614). Prunus spinosa, Blackthorn. Forming hedges near quarry and adjoining farmland (SJ3613), seeded into quarry woodland. Rosa canina agg., Dog Rose. Only recorded at the aggregate level in this survey, found in SJ3513 and SJ3613. Dr. A.K. Thorne recorded it in non-aggregate form in the same area. Rubus fruticosus agg., Bramble. Occasional in parkland and quarry (SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613) but never dominating. * Sorbus aucuparia, Rowan. Occasional trees in parkland and quarry (SJ3513 and SJ3514).

Rhamnaceae † Rhamnus cathartica, Buckthorn. Only ever recorded in Alberbury Quarry (SJ3613) by Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006. One plant (pers. comm. Thorne)

Ulmaceae Ulmus glabra, Wych Elm. In quarry, including one very old specimen tree. Also growing in woodland to northwest of deer park (SJ3514).

Urticaceae

* Prunus cerasifera, Cherry Plum. A group of immature trees planted fairly recently in parkland (SJ3513). Introduced.

Urtica dioica, Common Nettle. In every 1km2 square, occasionally forming monocultures, but generally not in dense stands.

* Prunus domestica, Wild Plum. Planted in parkland (SJ3613). Not determined to subspecies.

* Urtica urens, Annual Nettle. Only in SJ3513 in bare scrappy ground.

Prunus laurocerasus, Cherry Laurel. Planted or naturalised in plantation woodland (SJ3513, SJ3614) often under Pinus

Fagaceae * Castanea sativa, Sweet Chestnut. Planted throughout. Introduced.

Fagus sylvatica, Beech. Planted throughout the deer park; avenue in quarry woodland. Self-seeding in woodland in northwest of park. Along with Fagus sylvatica ‘Purpurea’. Introduced. * Quercus petraea, Sessile Oak. Occasional. Planted (young trees) in ‘compound’ above main quarry (SJ3613). Quercus robur, Pedunculate Oak. Throughout park. Generally only as mature trees. * Quercus xrosacea, Hybrid Oak. Common in new plantings. Especially near track and ‘compound’ above main quarry (SJ3613).

Betulaceae * Alnus glutinosa, Alder. Occasional in SJ3514. Betula pendula, Silver Birch. Generally in the northern parts of the park. Corylus avellana, Hazel. Northern parts of the park in woodland.

Celastraceae * Euonymus europaeus, Spindle. Some planted specimens in boundary between quarry and arable land (SJ3613). Also growing on rock face on south side of quarry, self seeded throughout.

Celastraceae * Oxalis acetosella, Wood-sorrel. Only see once in woodland to far northwest of site.

Euphorbiaceae Mercurialis perennis, Dog’s-Mercury. Occasional in woodland or copses throughout deer park (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613, SJ3614).

Salicaceae * Populus tremula, Aspen. Several planted trees in plantation woodland (SJ3613). Introduced. Populus x canadensis, Hybrid Blackpoplar. Widely planted, with some large stands near pools and an avenue along footpath near quarry (SJ3514, SJ3612 and SJ3613). Introduced. Populus x canescens Grey Poplar. First recorded by Mrs P. Parker in 1995 at tetrad level (SJ31L). Probably still there but not relocated. Found this year in SJ3613 in plantation near Park Lodge. Salix caprea, Goat Willow. Near pools in SJ3514. Salix cinerea, Grey Willow. Found by Dr. A.K. Thorne in SJ3613, still present also in SJ3513. Salix fragilis, Crack-willow. Occasional in SJ3514 and SJ3613. * Salix x sepulcralis, Weeping Willow. Planted in SJ3514. Introduced.

Violaceae Viola odorata, Sweet Violet. Quarry woodland floor in SJ3613 and SJ3614. Viola reichenbachiana, Early Dogviolet. Probably under-recorded in main parkland due to time of year, but found in quarry in spring. Viola riviniana, Common Dog-violet. Common throughout in all squares.

Cucurbitaceae * Bryonia dioica, White Bryony.

Single plant growing on eastern wall of deer park near Park Lodge (plant rooted on other side of wall).

* Geranium pusillum, Small-flowered Crane’s-bill. Found in SJ3514 in short grassland; SJ3513 in open quarry and northwestern quarry SJ3613.

Linaceae Linum catharticum, Fairy Flax. Common in short grassland and track sides. (SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613)

Hypericaceae (Clusiaceae) Hypericum hirsutum, Hairy St. John’swort. Quite widespread throughout Quarry woodland, always growing in a clearing away from denser vegetation. Can be in clearings, open quarry floor, rock face or path sides. Also found in woods and plantation woodland to northwest of deer park (SJ3514) Hypericum humifusum, Trailing St. John’s-wort. Recorded previously by Prof I.C. Trueman in 1988 (SJ360138). Only found this year growing in coarse grass and shaded bracken by western side of pool (SJ35691365). Hypericum perforatum, Perforate St. John’s-wort. Recorded by Mrs P. Parker in SJ3513 in 1992. Only found this year growing on rock outcrops facing west (SJ35441381). Hypericum tetrapterum, Squarestalked St. John’s-wort. Quarry (SJ3613) and parkland (SJ3514).

Geraniacaceae Erodium cicutarium, Common Stork’sbill. First recorded in 1905 by Rev. W. Phillips. Widespread and common throughout the Deer Park (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613) in short grassland, rock outcrops and by track sides. Geranium molle, Dove’s-foot Crane’sbill. Again first record is by Rev. W. Phillips in 1905. Similarly widespread as Erodium cicutarium.

Geranium robertianum, HerbRobert. Common in woodland, quarry woodland or opportunistically hiding in amongst tyre walls (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). A colony of the white flowered form was widespread in the wood to the northwest of the deer park (SJ3514).

Lythraceae * Lythrum portula, Water-purslane. Very common around pond (SJ35691367), seemingly appreciating poaching by deer’s feet.

Onagraceae Chamerion angustifolium, Rosebay Willowherb. Only occasional in SJ3613, also in quarry. Circaea lutetiana, Enchanter’snightshade. Growing in woodland in quarry (SJ3513, SJ3613, SJ3614), common in northwest woodland (SJ3514) and also in plantation (SJ3513) underneath Arctium minus and Prunus laurocerasus. Epilobium hirsutum, Great Willowherb. Occasional in quarry (SJ3613). * Epilobium montanum, Broad-leaved Willowherb. Rare in quarry, keyed out in Stace and Poland. Epilobium palustre, Marsh Willowherb. First found by Dr. A.K. Thorne in Quarry, also found this year occasionally amongst poolside vegetation (SJ3514). * Epilobium parviflorum, Hoary Willowherb. Found in SJ3514 and quarry (SJ3613). 31

* Epilobium tetragonum, Squarestalked Willowherb. Found near quarry (SJ3613).

Sapindaceae (incl. Aceraceae and Hippocastanaceae). Acer campestre, Field Maple. Occasional in SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613 as small trees or in hedgerow. An Acer was found at SJ35591369 forming the corner of a planted woodland could not be fully determined, although it will probably turn out to be just a form of A. campestre. * Acer macrophyllum, Oregon Maple. Single planted specimen near the main gate to the deer park (SJ35751431), worth looking for to view the spectacularly large leaves and bristly fruits.

Acer pseudoplatanus, Sycamore. Planted and naturalised throughout (every square), often forming large trees. Several cultivated forms with strong variegation (possibly including the cultivar ‘Simon-Louis Frères’) also planted throughout the northern parts of the park. A single tree (SJ355144 planted near the northwest woodland appears to be A. pseudoplatanus ‘Atropurpureum’. Often found with Mistletoe in attendance. Introduced. * Aesculus hippocastanum, Horse Chestnut. Planted occasionally (SJ3513 and SJ3514). Often heavily infested with Horse Chestnut (Cameraria ohridella), a leaf mining moth.

Malvaceae * Malva moschata, Musk-mallow. Occasional on north-western quarry floor (SJ36061396), dozen plants. * Tilia cordata, Small-leaved Lime. Single very large and old tree growing on edge of quarry woodland near fields (SJ3614). Another

slightly smaller but no less impressive tree was seen just outside the wood in the northwest of the deer park (SJ35311427). Tilia xeuropaea, Lime. Previously recorded to 2km2 level by Mrs P. Parker (SJ31L and SJ31M). Planted. This year recorded in SJ3513 (hosting Viscum album) and SJ3514.

Resedaceae *Reseda luteola, Weld. (Leaves entire with wavy margins, not pinnate as Reseda lutea, Wild Mignonette). Found in SJ3514 and SJ3613.

Brassicaceae Alliaria petiolata, Garlic Mustard. Recorded in SJ3513 and SJ3613. Arabidopsis thaliana, Thale Cress. Recorded once anonymously at the tetrad level (SJ31M) in 1992. * Capsella bursa-pastoris, Shepherd’spurse. Found in recently dumped rubble near Park Lodge (SJ3613) Cardamine flexuosa, Wavy Bittercress. Found in SJ3513, SJ3514 and quarry floor (SJ3613). Cardamine hirsuta, Hairy Bitter-cress. In SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613. Cardamine pratensis, Cuckooflower. Both SJ3513 and SJ3514. Also found by Dr. A.K. Thorne in SJ3613. Erophila verna, Common Whitlowgrass. First recorded in 1980 by Mr W.V. Prestwood in SJ3513, re-found by Mrs P. Parker in 1992 and again by Dr. S.J. Whild in 1996. In 1992 Prof I.C. Trueman found it in SJ3513. Not seen in either squares this year (probably missed due to not surveying early enough). Only recorded this year in SJ3514. 32

Lepidium (Coronopus) didymus, Lesser Swine-cress. Making its odorous present felt in typical habitats (gateways, scuffed edges of tarmac, verges and track sides) in SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613. Nasturtium officinale, Water-cress. Recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in SJ3613 by Dr. A.K. Thorne. Found again their but only recorded to aggregate level. * Sisymbrium officinale, Hedge Mustard. Only recorded in SJ3613.

* Polygonum aviculare ss. Knotgrass: Common throughout. Rumex acetosa, Common Sorrel. Common throughout. Rumex acetosella, Sheep’s Sorrel Throughout in shorter grassland. Rumex obtusifolius, Broad-leaved Dock. Occasional throughout, SJ3513, SJ3613 and SJ3614. Rumex sanguineus, Bloody Dock. Woodland in quarry (SJ3613).

Santalaceae (incl. Viscaceae). Viscum album, Mistletoe. The first record from the Loton Estate was for Mistletoe, recorded by Mr J.F.M. Dovaston in 1841 as “On hawthorn, profusely”. Regularly recorded since 1988 till 1996. Recorded this year in SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613; growing on Acer pseudoplatanus, Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Populus spp. and Tilia x europaea. Occasionally in the case with Crataegus and Populus sp. the tree can be covered in Mistletoe.

Carophyllaceae Arenaria leptoclados, Slender Sandwort. (Syn. Arenaria serpyllifolia ssp. leptoclados). First recorded as Arenaria serpyllifolia sl. by Prof I.C. Trueman in 1988 (SJ360138). Re-found at several sites in SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613 and SJ3614. Specimens all had straight sided capsules with sepals circa 2.5mm.

Polygonaceae

Moehringia trinervia, Three-nerved Sandwort. Found by Dr. A.K. Thorne in the Quarry in 2006. Still present.

* Fallopia baldschuanica, Russian Vine. A single plant smothering an Ash tree near a small clearing in quarry. Introduced.

Stellaria graminea, Lesser Stitchwort. Occasional throughout.

Persicaria amphibia, Amphibious Bistort. With Equisetum fluviatile in large pool SJ3514. * Persicaria maculosa, Redshank. Growing in damp ‘stream’ in north-western quarry (SJ36061396). * Polygonum arenastrum ss. Equalleaved Knotgrass: Occasional. Found by side of pool (SJ356136) and also on tracks (SJ35401396).

Stellaria media, Common Chickweed. Widespread but never particularly common. Cerastium fontanum, Common Mouse-ear. Frequent throughout. † Cerastium glomeratum, Sticky Mouse-ear. Recorded in 1992 by Mrs P. Parker throughout the site and by Dr. A.K. Thorne in the Quarry in 2006. † Cerastium semidecandrum, Little Mouse-ear. First recorded in 1980 by Mr W.V. Prestwood (SJ358136) and again by Prof 33

I.C. Trueman in 1988 (SJ360138). Mrs P. Parker recorded it in SJ3513 in 1992. Not seen this year but probably missed rather than a loss.

Primulaceae

Sagina apetala, Annual Pearlwort Occasional throughout site. Usually by edge of race track in broken down asphalt or centre of less maintained tracks; also in short grassland.

Primula veris, Cowslip. Found to the north-east of the site near Park Lodge (SJ365132); also found by Dr. A.K. Thorne in the Quarry.

Sagina procumbens ss. Procumbent Pearlwort. Widespread and more common than Sagina apetala. Growing in less discerning sites.

Primula vulgaris, Primrose. First recorded by Mrs P. Parker in 1992 in SJ3513. Not seen there this year but found in SJ3613 in Quarry (along top path above quarry, on quarry floor and quarry woodland). Also in woodland in northwest of deer park (SJ3514).

* Spergularia rubra, Sand Spurrey. Growing in moist, damp areas especially worn patches near track edges (SJ35791345) and on slightly drier ground with Potentilla argentea (SJ36361302). Silene dioica, Red Campion. Found mainly in the southern parts of the site although it was present in the Quarry (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613, SJ3614). â&#x20AC; Silene flos-cuculi, Ragged Robin. Only ever recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in the Quarry in 2006.

Montiaceae Montia fontana ssp. chondrosperma, Blinks. First recorded by Mrs P. Parker in 1992 in SJ3513 as Montia fontana sl. probably still there. Recorded this year in SJ3613 as subspecies, growing in short dry grassland with Arenaria leptoclados and Ornithopus perpusillus.

Cornaceae * Cornus sanguinea, Dogwood. Forming part of hedgerow boundary between farmland and quarry (SJ3613) presumably planted. Also planted in pheasant enclosure (SJ355137).

* Lysimachia nemorum, Yellow Pimpernel. Found in SJ3513 and SJ3613 in woodland near quarry.

Rubiaceae Cruciata laevipes, Crosswort. Previously recorded by Prof I.C. Trueman in SJ360138 and Dr. A.K. Thorne in Quarry (SJ3613). Found this year in trackside grassland (SJ3514; SJ3613; SJ3614).

Galium aparine, Cleavers. Common throughout parkland, woodland and quarry. Confusingly also growing as tight clumps in short grassland. Galium palustre, Marsh Bedstraw. First recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in Quarry (SJ3613). Found this year there and also SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613, SJ3614 by edges of pools. Subspecies G. palustre ssp. palustre identified in Quarry pool (SJ3613). Galium saxatile, Heath Bedstraw. First recorded by Dr. S.J. Whild in SJ3513. Probably overlooked in that square but newly found in SJ3514. Galium verum, Ladyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bedstraw. Widespread in suitable grassland throughout deer park.

Sherardia arvensis, Field Madder. Common throughout by sides of asphalt tracks, in ruffed up verges, thin soils on rock outcrops and short grassland.

Gentianaceae Centaurium erythraea, Common Centaury. Only ever recorded by Mrs P. Parker in 1992 (SJ3513). Single plant found (SJ36171382) growing on top path above main quarry. Widespread on the stone outcrop (SJ357142) in Alberbury Village hall car park.

Boraginaceae Cynoglossum officinale, Houndâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;stongue. First recorded by Rev. W. Phillips in 1905, then not again until 1980 by Mr W. V. Prestwood (SJ358136). Previously in SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613. After a long search refound in SJ3514 in three sites all along the western boundary of the deer park. Plants were growing in short grassland in areas with less bracken. Several plants had been subjecting to browsing by presumably deer and no signs of flowering were evident on any plants. Myosotis arvensis, Field Forget-menot. First recorded by Mrs S. Stafford in 1981 (SJ358142). Also found by Prof I.C. Trueman in grassland in SJ3613 and Dr. A.K. Thorne in quarry (SJ3613). Seen this year in SJ3513 on rock outcrops. â&#x20AC; Myosotis discolor, Changing Forgetme-not. Previously found in SJ3513 and SJ3613. Not re-found this year. Myosotis ramosissima, Early Forgetme-not. Previously recorded in SJ3513 and SJ3613. Re-found there plus also recorded in SJ3514. Growing with Catapodium rigidum on rock cutting to north east of park near Park Lodge.

* Myosotis secunda, Creeping Forgetme-not. Found in SJ3514 near Quarry pool and north-western quarry (SJ3613). * Myosotis scorpioides, Water Forgetme-not. Found in and near quarry pool. * Myosotis sylvatica, Wood Forgetme-not. Found in shady and wooded areas (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613).

Convolvulaceae Calystegia sepium, Hedge Bindweed. Found once in SJ3514 and in quarry woodland (SJ3613). * Calystegia silvatica, Large Bindweed. Found once in overgrown area in woodland to northwest of deer park (SJ3514).

Solanaceae Solanum dulcamarum, Bittersweet. Growing in wet ground near pool in Quarry (SJ3613).

Oleaceae Fraxinus excelsior, Ash. Deer park and Quarry (SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613). In one case growing epiphytically in variegated Sycamore (SJ3514).

Veronicaceae Digitalis purpurea, Foxglove. Occasional to rare. Growing under plantation woodland (SJ3514) and in quarry woodland (SJ3613). * Veronica agrestis, Green FieldSpeedwell. Only found in upper quarry at farthest western end of Alberbury Quarry (SJ3513). Conf. Dr. S.J. Whild. Veronica arvensis, Wall Speedwell. First recorded by Mrs S. Stafford in 1981 (SJ3514), SJ3513 (Mrs P. Parker in 1992) and 35

also SJ3613 (Prof I.C. Trueman in 1998 and Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006). Only found in SJ3514 and quarry (SJ3613) this year. Veronica beccabunga, Brooklime. Recorded previously by Dr. S.J. Whild (1996) and Dr. A.K. Thorne (2006) in the quarry. Still present, also found in SJ3514 this year. Veronica catenata, Pink WaterSpeedwell. Recorded anonymously at tetrad level (SJ31M) in 1992. A few plants found by northern sunnier side of main pool in quarry (SJ3613). Veronica chamaedryas, Germander Speedwell. Found throughout park in grassland and margins of woodland. Occasionally forming dense stands in open quarry floors. The Gall Midge (Jaapiella veronicae) was also present (SJ3613 and elsewhere).

Veronica serpyllifolia, Thyme-leaved Speedwell. Widespread in grassland in Deer Park (SJ3513, SJ3514,SJ3613) and occasional in quarry floors and paths (SJ3613). Not determined to subspecies.

Plantaginaceae Plantago lanceolata, Ribwort Plantain. Common and widespread (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). Plantago major, Greater Plantain. As Plantago lanceolata. â&#x20AC; Plantago media, Hoary Plantain. Only ever recorded by Prof I.C. Trueman in 1988 (SJ360138). Area was botanised in search for Potentilla argentea and Arenaria leptoclados, but presumably this species was missed.

* Veronica filiformis, Slender Speedwell. Found in short grassland bordering track (SJ3514) and quarry woodland (SJ3613).

Callitrichaceae

* Veronica hederifolia, Ivy-leaved Speedwell. Found in bare ground, woodland track sides and elsewhere (SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613).

Scrophulariaceae

Veronica montana, Wood Speedwell. Quarry woodland (SJ3613 and SJ3614) and occasionally in other woodlands or plantations (SJ3514). Veronica officinalis, Heath Speedwell. Occasional in heathy grassland (SJ3513 and SJ3613). * Veronica persica, Common FieldSpeedwell. Previously an anonymous record from 1992 for SJ31M. Found this year in rough ground (SJ3513) and quarry woodland (SJ3613).

* Callitriche stagnalis, Common Water-starwort. Growing on northern edge of main pool in quarry.

* Scrophularia auriculata, Water Figwort. Growing near water in quarry (SJ3613) particularly by stream running to pool. Scrophularia nodosa, Common Figwort. Growing by pool in quarry (SJ3613). First recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006 at same site Verbascum thapsus, Great Mullein. An anonymous tetrad record from 1992 (SJ31R) may apply to the Deer Park. The first good record is by Dr. A.K. Thorne (2006) in SJ3613 which is in S31R. Re-found in quarry growing in open clearings in quarry woodland (uncharacteristically also growing epiphytically on fallen Salix roots in Willow 36

carr) and on top track above quarry (SJ3613). Found in SJ3514 growing on wall tops.

† Euphrasia officinalis agg., An Eyebright. Only ever recorded by Mrs S. Stafford (SJ361139) in 1981.

Lamiaceae Ajuga reptans, Bugle. Recorded twice in the Quarry (Dr. S.J. Whild, 1996 and Dr. A.K. Thorne, 2006) Found throughout quarry floor and by footpath in quarry woodland.

Aquifoliaceae

* Ballota nigra, Black Horehound. In rough grassland (SJ3514).

Campanulaceae

Glechoma hederacea, Ground Ivy. Occasional in grassland, hedgerows and track sides in woodland throughout. Some quarry floors had dominant stands. * Lamium purpureum, Red Deadnettle. Only found in upper quarry at farthest western end of Alberbury Quarry (SJ3513). Mentha aquatica, Water Mint. Growing in many of the pools present on the site (SJ3514 and SJ3613) and forming pungent carpets in quarry. First recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne from the quarry pool. † Mentha arvensis, Corn Mint. Recorded anonymously in 1992 at the tetrad level (SJ31M). Possibly from this site, Dr. A.K. Thorne recorded it in Alberbury (SJ31S) in 2002. Prunella vulgaris, Selfheal. Occasional in grassland and quarry (SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613). Stachys sylvatica, Hedge Woundwort. Occasional in coarse grassland and quarry woodland (SJ3613 and SJ3614). Thymus polytrichus, Wild Thyme. Common throughout site on rock outcrops (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613).

Orobanchaceae

* Ilex aquifolium, Holly. Rare in Deer Park (SJ3514, SJ3613); a seedling found in quarry woodland (SJ3613).

Campanula rotundifolia, Harebell. Found in suitable short grassland in the Deer Park (SJ3513 and SJ3516). First recorded by Mrs P. Parker in SJ3513 in 1992.

Asteraceae Achillea millefolium, Yarrow. Throughout park, in every square. Arctium minus, Lesser Burdock. Occasional in grassland, woodland and quarry (SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613). Bellis perennis, Daisy. Found occasionally throughout, usually in shorter grassland or small rubble areas. † Carduus nutans, Musk Thistle. Only ever recorded by Mrs P. Parker in SJ3513 in 1992. Cirsium arvense, Creeping Thistle. Occasionally forming quick dense stands in coarser grassland (SJ3613), present in all squares. Cirsium palustre, Marsh Thistle. Growing in damp areas surrounding pools in Deer Park (SJ3514) and Quarry (SJ3613). Cirsium vulgare, Spear Thistle. Rare throughout, occasionally common (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). * Crepis capillaris, Smooth Hawk’sbeard. A single plant growing on west facing 37

rock exposure in the western side of the deer park (SJ3513) with Arenaria leptoclados. * Gnaphalium uliginosum, Marsh Cudweed. Occasional in centre of paths in north-eastern parts of deer park (SJ3513, SJ3514). * Hieracium sp., A Hawkweed. Found on rock outcrop in SJ3514. Not flowering so no further determination made. † Hypochaeris glabra, Smooth Cat’sear. Recorded once by Mrs S. Stafford in1976 (SJ362134). Hypochaeris radicata, Cat’s-ear. Recorded once by Mrs P. Parker in 1992 (SJ3513). Re-found in SJ3513. Inula conyzae, Ploughman’sspikenard. Found by Dr. A.K. Thorne near the Quarry (SJ3613) in 2006. More than hundred seedlings growing along top path above quarry; flowering occasionally. Several plants growing on northern wall of deer park and throughout short grassland (SJ3613). Widespread on western side of deer park (SJ3513). Also present and flowering on rock outcrop (SJ358142) in Alberbury Village hall car park. Lapsana communis, Nipplewort. First recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006 in the Quarry (SJ3613), still present. Leontodon hispidus, Rough Hawkbit. Previously recorded by Mrs S. Stafford in 1981 (SJ361139), not seen there but found this year in SJ3513. † Leontodon saxatilis, Lesser Hawkbit. First recorded by Mr W.V. Prestwood in 1980 (SJ358136), lastly by Mrs P. Parker in 1992 (SJ3513).

* Matricaria discoidea, Pineappleweed. Occasional in tracks and paths. * Mycelis muralis, Wall Lettuce. Rare in SJ3513 and quarry walls (SJ3613). † Petasites hybridus, Butterbur. Recorded once by Mrs P. Parker in 1992 (SJ3513). Pilosella officinarum, Mouse-ear Hawkweed. Common in grassland and rock outcrops (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). * Scorzoneroides (Leontodon) autumnalis, Autumnal Hawkbit. Recorded in SJ3513 and SJ3613 probably in error for one of the other Leontodon species possibly L. saxatilis. Senecio jacobaea, Ragwort. Occasional throughout in short and coarse grassland, quarry boundaries (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613 and SJ3614). * Senecio vulgaris, Groundsel. Occasional in SJ3513 on walls and rough ground. Sonchus oleraceus, Smooth Sowthistle. Recorded anonymously in 1992 for the tetrad SJ31M. Only found the once on a rock outcrop as a seedling with Crepis capillaris and Arenaria leptoclados. † Taraxacum laevigatum agg. A Dandelion. Specimens matching this identification were found but not confirmed (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). Only properly recorded by Prof I.C. Trueman in SJ3613 in 1988. Taraxacum officinale agg. A Dandelion. All records in current survey made at the aggregate level although many

plants looked like T. laevigatum agg. Every square. Tussilago farfara, Colt’s-foot. First recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in SJ3613. Found this year in SJ3514. Found in quarry, single plant.

Adoxaceae

* Apium nodiflorum, Fool’s-watercress. In pools in Deer Park (SJ3514). * Chaerophyllum temulum, Rough Chervil. Growing along top track above quarry (SJ3613) and in woodland to northwest of deer park (SJ3514).

Adoxa moschatellina, Moschatel. Only ever recorded from the quarry (SJ3613). First record there by Dr. S.J. Whild in 1996.

Heracleum sphondylium, Hogweed. Occasional throughout (SJ3513, SJ3612, SJ3613, SJ3614).

Caprifoliaceae

† Sanicula europaea, Sanicle. Recorded in the quarry woodland by Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006. Presumably overlooked in this survey.

Lonicera nitida, Wilson’s Honeysuckle. Large stand in north-eastern end of quarry woodland (SJ3613), near boundary with farm land. Sambucus nigra, Elder. Common, in plantation and woodland (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613, SJ3614). Symphoricarpos albus, Snowberry. Recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in the Quarry (2006). Still present, planted along top path above quarry. Also planted in pheasant enclosure (SJ3514). Introduced.

Araliaceae Hedera helix, Ivy. Occasional as groundcover in plantation or growing up trees in woodland (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613).

* Torilis japonica, Upright Hedgeparsley. Rare along top path above quarry.

Araceae Arum maculatum, Lords and ladies. Occasional in woodland, quarry woodland and in plantation woodland deer park (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613, SJ3614).

Lemnaceae Lemna minor, Common Duckweed. Common in pool to north of deer park (SJ3514), also in pool in Quarry (SJ3613).

Apiaceae (Umbelliferae).

* Lemna trisulca, Ivy-leaved Duckweed. Occasional to dominant in pool in Quarry (SJ3613).

*Aegopodium podagraria, Groundelder. Only recorded in SJ3514.

Alismataceae

* Aethusa cynapium, Fool’s Parsley. Several plants growing near gate along woodland drive in northwest corner of site (SJ353143).

Alisma plantago-aquatica. Waterplantain. Growing in the Quarry pool (SJ3613) and in pool in deer park (SJ3514).

Potamogetonaceae (incl. Zannichelliaceae).

* Anthriscus sylvestris, Cow Parsley. Boundary between farmland and woodland (SJ3613).

Potamogeton berchtoldii, Small Pondweed. First recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne 39

in the Quarry pool (SJ3613) in 2006. Still present and widespread. † Potamogeton crispus, Curled Pondweed. Only recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006 from the main Quarry pool (SJ3613).

found by Mrs S. Stafford in 1981 with D. fuchsii and the intermediate hybrid (SJ361139). Found by Dr. A.K. Thorne in SJ3613 in 2006 in small numbers. Previously seen in large number with D. fuchsii and hybrid circa 1996 pers. comm. Dr. S.J. Whild.

Potamogeton natans, Broad-leaved Pondweed. One of Loton Estates earliest botanical records, a voucher specimen held by the British Museum reveals that Sir J.B.L. Warren found it here in 1871.Found by Dr. A.K. Thorne in the upper quarry pool with Typha latifolia (SJ36151384), not found there this year but pool is now much overgrown. Also found this year in SJ3513 with Lythrum portula and Eleocharis palustris.

† Dactylorhiza x grandis (D. fuchsii x D. praetermissa). Another first for Mrs S. Stafford, found in 1981 with both parents (SJ361139).

† Zannichellia palustris, Horned Pondweed. One record by Prof I.C. Trueman in 1988 from SJ360130. This pool is now dried up and had no marginal or aquatic species currently present.

Alliaceae (incl. Amaryllidaceae).

† Neottia ovata (Syn. Listera ovata), Lesser Twayblade. First recorded by Mrs S. Stafford in SJ361139 in 1981. Re-found by Dr. A.K. Thorne in quarry woodland (SJ3613) in 2006.

* Galanthus nivalis, Snowdrop. Found in woodland edges (SJ3513 and SJ3613).

Asparagaceae (incl. Hyacinthaceae).

Tamus communis, Black Bryony. Present in the quarry woodland (SJ3613).

Hyacinthus non-scripta, Bluebell. First recorded by Mrs P. Parker in SJ3513 in 1992. Not re-found there but found in quarry woodland (SJ3613).

Orchidaceae

Typhaceae (incl. Sparganiaceae).

Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Common Spotted-orchid. First recorded by Mrs S. Stafford in 1981 in SJ361139. Found by Dr. A.K. Thorne in SJ3613 in 2006. Not found there in either site but found in SJ3513 where a few non-flowering plants were found in woodland near the quarry. Also found in the quarry at SJ36181386 whilst searching for D. praetermissa and their hybrid. Also present outside the park growing on stone outcrop (SJ358142) in Alberbury Village hall car park where in excess of 150 flower spikes were counted.

Sparganium erectum, Branched Burreed. Growing in pool in deer park (SJ3513). Also found by Dr. A.K. Thorne in quarry pool (SJ3613) in 2006. Not determined to subspecies.

Dioscoreaceae

† Dactylorhiza praetermissa, Southern Marsh-orchid. First recorded by Mr E.H. Wolfe in SJ357130 in 1981. Another site

Typha latifolia, Bulrush. Found by Dr. A.K. Thorne in quarry pool in 2006. Re-found after a hunt in small pool above main pool in quarry.

Juncaceae * Juncus acutiflorus, Sharp-flowered Rush. Occasional round pools in deer park (SJ3514).

Juncus articulatus, Jointed Rush. Occasional to frequent in deer park (SJ3513 and SJ3514). Also present in quarry woodland (SJ3613) by Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006. â&#x20AC; Juncus conglomeratus, Compact Rush. Only recorded by Dr. S.J. Whild in 1996 in SJ3513 and SJ3613. Juncus effusus, Soft Rush. Occasional in wet and boggy areas of deer park (SJ3513 and SJ3514). Dr. S.J. Whild found it in SJ3613 in 1996. Juncus inflexus, Hard Rush. Common throughout park in grassland and boundaries of woodland, quarry woodland (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). Luzula campestris, Field Wood-rush. Common in grassland throughout (SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613). * Luzula multiflora, Heath Wood-rush. Found in SJ3613 during current survey work near quarry woodland.

Cyperaceae Carex caryophyllea, Spring Sedge. Widespread and common in grassland throughout (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). Carex demissa, Common Yellowsedge (Syn. C. viridula ssp. oedocarpa). Record previously in SJ3613, not found there but instead in a new site SJe514 in damp grassland. Carex flacca, Glaucous Sedge. Common throughout in drier short grassland (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). Carex hirta, Hairy Sedge. Occasional in deer park in coarse grassland, but where found can dominant a sward (SJ3514,

SJ3613). Also present in rougher areas of quarry woodland (SJ3613). Carex muricata ssp. pairae Prickly Sedge. In drier grassland to the northwest and southern parts of the deer park (SJ3513, SJ3513, SJ3613). Carex otrubae, False Fox-sedge. Rare, a single plant found round margins of pool in deer park (SJ3514). Rare growing along damp stream through bottom of quarry (SJ3613). Also seen in north-western quarry and compound above main quarry near top track (SJ3613). Carex panicea, Carnation Sedge. Occasional in damper grassland (SJ3513, SJ3514). Plants where checked against the similar C. flacca, specimens had trigonous leaf tips. Carex paniculata, Greater Tussocksedge. Forming large plants by the sides of the quarry pool and along feeder stream (SJ3613). * Carex pseudocyperus, Cyperus Sedge. Growing with C. paniculata on the margins of the quarry pool (SJ3613). Carex remota, Remote Sedge. Recorded in the quarry woodland (SJ3613) by Dr. S.J. Whild in 1996 and again by Dr. A.K. Thorne in 2006. Growing along streamside in quarry bottom. Occasional. Carex sylvatica, Wood-sedge. Recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in quarry woodland (SJ3613) in 2006. Very rare, only two or three plants seen growing above wet areas in quarry bottom. * Eleocharis palustris, Common Spikerush. Surprisingly never recorded from the Loton Estate before. It forms dense almost monoculture stands in most pools in the deer 41

park (SJ3513 and SJ3514) with Equisetum fluviatile.

short grassland and woodland (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613).

Poaceae

Briza media, Quaking-grass. In short grassland, occasional. (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613).

* Agrostis canina, Velvet Bent. Probably only ‘new’ due to wet habitats (SJ3613) being examined during current survey. Agrostis capillaris, Common Bent. Growing in fine grassland and woodland clearing in quarry (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). Agrostis stolonifera, Creeping Bent. Found in wet grassland (SJ3513), also recorded by Prof I.C. Trueman (1988) and Dr. A.K. Thorne (2006) in SJ3613. † Aira caryophyllea, Silver Hair-grass. Found twice, SJ358136 by Mr W.V. Prestwood in 1980; and SJ360138 by Prof I.C. Trueman in 1988. † Aira praecox, Early Hair-grass Only recorded by Prof I.C. Trueman with Aira caryophyllea in SJ3613. * Alopecurus geniculatus, Marsh Foxtail. Rare round the edge of pool in deer park (SJ3513) and by side of quarry pool (SJ3613). * Alopecurus pratensis, Meadow Foxtail. Common in deer park (SJ3514). Anthoxanthum odoratum, Sweet Vernal-grass. Widespread in grassland (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). Arrhenatherum elatius, False Oatgrass. Occasional in patches in good grasslands and rock outcrops, becoming more dominant in coarser grassland (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). Brachypodium sylvaticum, Wood False-brome. Common and widespread in

Bromus hordaceus, Soft-brome. Rare in grassland and verges (SJ3513 and SJ3514). Catapodium rigidum, Fern-grass. Growing on sparse rock outcrops, often with Polytrichum spp. moss (SJ3513) and in rock cutting growing with Myosotis ramosissima (SJ3613). Cynosurus cristatus, Crested Dog’stail. Widespread in grassland (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613), found also on ledges in quarry (SJ3613). Dactylis glomerata, Cock’s-foot. Widespread but not dominating sward (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). † Danthonia decumbens, Heath-grass. Found previously by Prof I.C. Trueman in 1988 (SJ3613). Deschampsia cespitosa, Tufted Hairgrass. Occasional in grassland and woodland (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). Festuca ovina agg., Sheep’s-fescue. Previously recorded from SJ3513. SJ3514 and SJ3613. Only recorded in SJ3513, SJ3613, seriously under-recorded during current survey in error for F. rubra. Festuca rubra agg., Red Fescue. Common in grassland (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3612, SJ3613). * Glyceria fluitans, Floating Sweetgrass. Found in deer park pools (SJ3513, SJ3514).

Holcus lanatus, Yorkshire-fog. Common in grassland (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613). † Lolium multiflorum, Italian Ryegrass. Found by Dr. A.K. Thorne near the quarry in 2006. Lolium perenne, Perennial Rye-grass. Widespread but only ever dominating near the main entrance (SJ3513, SJ3514, SJ3613).

Vulpia bromoides, Squirreltail Fescue. Rare, verges of race tracks and scruffy paths (SJ3513), previously scruffy paths (SJ3513), previously found in SJ3613. * Vulpia myuros, Rat’s-tail Fescue. Found in rough sides of asphalt track (SJ3514).

Phleum bertelonii, Smaller Cat’s-ear. Probably overlooked, only recorded from grassland in SJ3514. Previously from SJ3613 as well. Phleum pratense ss., Timothy. Common in deer park grassland (SJ3513, SJ3613). Poa annua, Annual Meadow-grass. Occasional in rough areas, particularly by edges of race tracks and paths (SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613). Poa pratensis, Smooth Meadowgrass. Only recorded from grassland in SJ3513, previously from SJ3613. Poa trivialis, Rough Meadow-grass. Found in rough grassland (SJ3513, SJ3514), also found in SJ3613 previously. Schedonorus (Festuca) giganteus, Giant Fescue. First recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in quarry area (SJ3613) in 2006. Only found this year in small old quarry/revetment (SJ35421436). † Schedonorus (Festuca) pratensis, Meadow Fescue. Only recorded by Dr. A.K. Thorne in quarry area (SJ3613) in 2006. Trisetum flavescens, Yellow Oat-grass. Common in good short grassland (SJ3513, SJ3514 and SJ3613). 43

Appendix 2: Losses and Gains for Loton Deer Park Species newly recorded this year Acer macrophyllum Aegopodium podagraria Aesculus hippocastanum Aethusa cynapium

Euonymus europaeus Galanthus nivalis Geranium pusillum

Prunus cerasifera Prunus domestica Prunus laurocerasus Quercus petraea

Agrostis canina Alnus glutinosa Alopecurus geniculatus Alopecurus pratensis Anthriscus sylvestris Apium nodiflorum Athyrium filix-femina

Glyceria fluitans Gnaphalium uliginosum Hieracium sp. Ilex aquifolium Juncus acutiflorus Lamium purpureum Lemna trisulca

Quercus xrosacea Ranunculus auricomus Ranunculus peltatus Reseda luteola Ribes nigrum Ribes uva-crispa Robinia pseudoacacia

Ballota nigra Bryonia dioica Callitriche stagnalis Calystegia silvatica Capsella bursa-pastoris Carex pseudocyperus Castanea sativa Cedrus atlantica Chaerophyllum temulum Chara vulgaris Cornus sanguinea Cotoneaster horizontalis

Lonicera nitida Luzula multiflora Lysimachia nemorum Lythrum portula Malva moschata Matricaria discoidea Mycelis muralis Myosotis scorpioides Myosotis secunda Myosotis sylvatica Ornithopus perpusillus Oxalis acetosella

Salix xsepulcralis Scorzoneroides autumnalis Scrophularia auriculata Sedum acre Sedum album Senecio vulgaris Sequoia sempervirens Sequoiadendron giganteum Sisymbrium officinale Sorbus aucuparia Spergularia rubra Torilis japonica

Crataegus xmedia Crepis capillaris Eleocharis palustris Epilobium montanum Epilobium parviflorum Epilobium tetragonum Equisetum arvense Equisetum fluviatile

Persicaria maculosa Pinus wallichiana Polygonum arenastrum Polygonum aviculare ss. Polypodium interjectum Polystichum setiferum Potentilla anserina Prunus avium

Ulex europaeus Urtica urens Veronica agrestis Veronica filiformis Veronica hederifolia Veronica persica Vulpia myuros

Aira caryophyllea Aira praecox Caltha palustris Carduus nutans Cerastium glomeratum Cerastium semidecandrum Dactylorhiza praetermissa

Leontodon saxatilis Lolium multiflorum Mentha arvensis Myosotis discolor Neottia ovata Ophioglossum vulgatum Petasites hybridus

Ranunculus bulbosus Ranunculus parviflorus Rhamnus catharticus Sanicula europaea Schedonorus pratensis Silene flos-cuculi Taraxacum laevigatum

Dactylorhiza xgrandis Danthonia decumbens Euphrasia officinalis agg. Filipendula ulmaria Hypochaeris glabra

Pinus nigra Plantago media Polypodium vulgare Potamogeton crispus Potentilla anglica

Taxus baccata Zannichellia palustris

Fallopia baldschuanica

Species not recorded this year

Appendix 3: Axiophytes recorded from Loton Deer Park and Alberbury Quarry. Adoxa moschatellina Aira caryophyllea Aira praecox Aphanes australis Briza media Carex caryophyllea Carex panicea Carex paniculata Carex pseudocyperus Carex demissa Catapodium rigidum Cerastium semidecandrum Cynoglossum officinale Dactylorhiza praetermissa Danthonia decumbens Dryopteris affinis Equisetum fluviatile Euonymus europaeus Euphrasia officinalis agg. Hypericum humifusum

Hypochaeris glabra Inula conyzae Leontodon saxatilis Linum catharticum Luzula multiflora Lythrum portula Montia fontana Myosotis discolor Myosotis ramosissima Myosotis secunda Neottia ovata Ophioglossum vulgatum Ornithopus perpusillus Plantago media Polystichum setiferum Potentilla argentea Ranunculus auricomus Rhamnus cathartica Sanicula europaea Saxifraga tridactylites

Sherardia arvensis Spergularia rubra Tilia cordata Trisetum flavescens Veronica agrestis Veronica catenata Veronica montana Veronica officinalis Viola reichenbachiana

Axiophytes are indicator species of conservation value from desirable characteristic habitats. Sites which have a long list of Axiophytes are considered to be of more conservation importance (Lockton 2006). A list of Shropshire Axiophytes (BSBI 2010) was compared to the list of plants, a total of 49 Axiophytes have been recorded in Loton Deer Park and Alberbury Quarry, the current survey recording 33 species. Those species which have been rerecorded in this survey are highlighted in bold. Of these axiophytes twenty six are from the acid grassland and rock outcrops, ten from the woodland present in Alberbury Quarry, and five wetland species from sites scattered throughout the park.

Appendix 4: Ellenberg R values of selected Grassland species. The ecological characteristics of a particular species have been given a rating or Ellenberg value and can be used by Ecologist to define a species and the habitats it occupies. These values are available for Light, Moisture, Reaction, Nitrogen and Salt. Initially only used in Europe these have now been adjusted by Hill et. al. (2004) for the British flora. Table 1 summarises the Ellenberg values for Reaction or soil pH with an explanation and example for each value (based on Hill et. al. 2004). The R values for a selection of the grassland species found in the northeastern part of the deer park have been listed in Table 2. Table 1: Ellenberg R values with explanation and example species. Ellenberg R value 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Explanation of scale (with example of species). Indicator of extreme acidity, never found on weakly acid or basic soils (e.g. Andromeda polifolia) Between 1 and 3 (e.g. Drosera rotundifolia, Polygala serpyllifolia) Acidity indicator, mainly on acid soils, but exceptionally also on nearly neutral ones (e.g. Galium saxatile, Pteridium aquilinum) Between 3 and 5 (e.g. Agrostis capillaris, Carex panicea) Indicator of moderately acid soils, only occasionally on very acid or on neutral to basic soils (e.g. Cirsium palustre) Between 5 and 7 (e.g. Ficaria verna) Indicator of weakly acid to weakly basic conditions; never found on very acid soils (e.g. Agrimonia eupatoria, Phleum pratense). Between 7 and 9 (e.g. Carduus nutans, Viola hirta). Indicator of basic reaction, always found on calcareous or other highpH soils (e.g. Clinopodium calamintha)

Table 2: Ellenberg R values for selected grassland species.

Ellenberg value for Reaction (soil pH) 1

Species

Potentilla erecta Pteridium aquilinum

Species Aphanes arvensis Carex flacca Carex muricata ssp. pairae Centaurium erythraea

Agrostis capillaris Anthoxanthum odoratum

Cerastium glomeratum Cerastium semidecandrum

Carex demissa

Cynosurus cristatus

Danthonia decumbens

Erodium cicutarium

Aira praecox

Festuca ovina Hypericum humifusum

Festuca rubra

Galium verum

Hypochaeris glabra

Holcus lanatus

Ornithopus perpusillus

Lathyrus pratensis

Rumex acetosella

Myosotis ramosissima

Spergularia rubra

Polygala vulgaris

Veronica officinalis

Sagina apetala

Aira caryophyllea

Thymus polytrichus

Aphanes australis

Veronica agrestis

Campanula rotundifolia

Veronica serpyllifolia

Luzula campestris Montia fontana

Ellenberg value for Reaction (soil pH)

Arenaria leptoclados 5

Briza media

Myosotis discolor

Carex caryophyllea

Potentilla argentea

Catapodium rigidum

Potentilla sterilis

Cruciata laevipes

Rumex acetosa

Juncus inflexus

Leontodon hispidus Pilosella officinarum Sedum acre Trisetum flavescens Veronica filiformis Cynoglossum officinale Inula conyzae -

8 9

Index to genera. Acer campestre................................. 32 Acer macrophyllum ........................... 32 Acer pseudoplatanus ........................ 32 Achillea millefolium .......................... 37 Adoxa moschatellina ........................ 39 Aegopodium podagraria ................... 39 Aesculus hippocastanum .................. 32 Aethusa cynapium ............................ 39 Agrimonia eupatoria......................... 28 Agrostis canina ................................. 42 Agrostis capillaris.............................. 42 Agrostis stolonifera ........................... 42 Aira caryophyllea .............................. 42 Aira praecox ..................................... 42 Ajuga reptans ................................... 37 Alisma plantago-aquatica ................. 39 Alliaria petiolata ............................... 32 Alnus glutinosa ................................. 30 Alopecurus geniculatus ..................... 42 Alopecurus pratensis......................... 42 Anthoxanthum odoratum ................. 42 Anthriscus sylvestris .......................... 39 Aphanes arvensis .............................. 28 Aphanes australis ............................. 28 Apium nodiflorum ............................. 39 Arabidopsis thaliana ......................... 32 Arctium minus .................................. 37 Arenaria leptoclados......................... 33 Arenaria serpyllifolia ......................... 33 Arrhenatherum elatius...................... 42 Arum maculatum .............................. 39 Asplenium adiantum-nigrum ............ 25 Asplenium ruta-muraria.................... 25 Asplenium scolopendrium ................. 25 Asplenium trichomanes ssp. quadrivalens ................................ 25 Athyrium filix-femina ........................ 25 Ballota nigra ..................................... 37 Bellis perennis ................................... 37 Betula pendula ................................. 30 Brachypodium sylvaticum ................. 42 Briza media....................................... 42 Bromus hordaceus ............................ 42 Bryonia dioica ................................... 30 Callitriche stagnalis........................... 36 Caltha palustris ................................. 26 Calystegia sepium ............................. 35 Calystegia silvatica ........................... 35 Campanula rotundifolia .................... 37 Capsella bursa-pastoris ..................... 32 Cardamine flexuosa .......................... 32 Cardamine hirsuta ............................ 32 Cardamine pratensis ......................... 32 Carduus nutans................................. 37 Carex caryophyllea ........................... 41 Carex demissa................................... 41 Carex flacca ...................................... 41 Carex hirta ........................................ 41

Carex muricata ssp. pairae................ 41 Carex otrubae ................................... 41 Carex panicea ................................... 41 Carex paniculata ............................... 41 Carex pseudocyperus ........................ 41 Carex remota .................................... 41 Carex sylvatica .................................. 41 Castanea sativa ................................ 29 Catapodium rigidum ......................... 42 Cedrus atlantica ................................ 26 Cedrus atlantica â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Glaucaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; .................. 26 Centaurium erythraea ....................... 35 Cerastium fontanum ......................... 33 Cerastium glomeratum ..................... 33 Cerastium semidecandrum ............... 33 Chaerophyllum temulum................... 39 Chamerion angustifolium .................. 31 Chara vulgaris ................................... 25 Circaea lutetiana............................... 31 Cirsium arvense ................................ 37 Cirsium palustre ................................ 37 Cirsium vulgare ................................. 37 Cornus sanguinea ............................. 34 Corylus avellana ................................ 30 Cotoneaster horizontalis ................... 28 Crataegus monogyna,....................... 28 Crataegus xmedia.............................. 28 Cruciata laevipes............................... 34 Cynoglossum officinale ..................... 35 Cynosurus cristatus ........................... 42 Dactylis glomerata ............................ 42 Dactylorhiza fuchsii ........................... 40 Dactylorhiza praetermissa ................ 40 Dactylorhiza x grandis ....................... 40 Danthonia decumbens ...................... 42 Deschampsia cespitosa ..................... 42 Digitalis purpurea ............................. 35 Dryopteris affinis agg ........................ 25 Dryopteris dilatata ............................ 25 Dryopteris filix-mas ........................... 26 Eleocharis palustris ........................... 41 Epilobium hirsutum ........................... 31 Epilobium montanum ....................... 31 Epilobium palustre ............................ 31 Epilobium parviflorum ...................... 31 Epilobium tetragonum ...................... 32 Equisetum arvense ............................ 25 Equisetum fluviatile .......................... 25 Erodium cicutarium........................... 31 Erophila verna................................... 32 Euonymus europaeus ........................ 30 Euphrasia officinalis agg. .................. 37 Fagus sylvatica ................................. 30 Fallopia baldschuanica...................... 33 Festuca ovina .................................... 42 Festuca rubra agg., ........................... 42 Ficaria verna ..................................... 26 Filipendula ulmaria ........................... 28

Fragaria vesca................................... 28 Fraxinus excelsior .............................. 35 Galanthus nivalis............................... 40 Galium aparine ................................. 34 Galium palustre ................................ 34 Galium saxatile ................................. 34 Galium verum ................................... 34 Geranium molle ................................ 31 Geranium pusillum ............................ 31 Geranium robertianum ..................... 31 Geum urbanum ................................. 28 Glechoma hederacea ........................ 37 Glyceria fluitans ................................ 42 Gnaphalium uliginosum .................... 38 Hedera helix ...................................... 39 Heracleum sphondylium.................... 39 Hieracium sp. .................................... 38 Holcus lanatus .................................. 43 Hyacinthus non-scripta ..................... 40 Hypericum hirsutum .......................... 31 Hypericum humifusum ...................... 31 Hypericum perforatum ...................... 31 Hypericum tetrapterum .................... 31 Hypochaeris glabra ........................... 38 Hypochaeris radicata ........................ 38 Ilex aquifolium .................................. 37 Inula conyzae .................................... 38 Juncus acutiflorus.............................. 40 Juncus articulatus ............................. 41 Juncus conglomeratus ....................... 41 Juncus effusus ................................... 41 Juncus inflexus .................................. 41 Lamium purpureum .......................... 37 Lapsana communis ........................... 38 Larix decidua ..................................... 26 Lathyrus pratensis ............................. 27 Lemna minor..................................... 39 Lemna trisulca .................................. 39 Leontodon hispidus ........................... 38 Leontodon saxatilis ........................... 38 Lepidium didymus ............................. 33 Linum catharticum ............................ 31 Lolium multiflorum............................ 43 Lolium perenne ................................. 43 Lonicera nitida .................................. 39 Lotus corniculatus ............................. 27 Luzula campestris ............................. 41 Luzula multiflora ............................... 41 Lysimachia nemorum ........................ 34 Lythrum portula ................................ 31 Malus sylvestris ................................. 28 Malva moschata ............................... 32 Matricaria discoidea ......................... 38 Medicago lupulina ............................ 27 Mentha aquatica .............................. 37 Mentha arvensis ............................... 37 Mercurialis perennis .......................... 30 Moehringia trinervia ......................... 33

Montia fontana ssp. chondrosperma 34 Mycelis muralis ................................. 38 Myosotis arvensis ............................. 35 Myosotis discolor .............................. 35 Myosotis ramosissima ...................... 35 Myosotis scorpioides......................... 35 Myosotis secunda ............................. 35 Myosotis sylvatica ............................ 35 Nasturtium officinale ........................ 33 Neottia ovata ................................... 40 Nymphaea alba ................................ 26 Ophioglossum vulgatum ................... 25 Ornithopus perpusillus ...................... 27 Oxalis acetosella ............................... 30 Persicaria amphibia .......................... 33 Persicaria maculosa .......................... 33 Petasites hybridus ............................. 38 Phleum bertelonii ............................. 43 Phleum pratense ss. .......................... 43 Picea abies........................................ 26 Pilosella officinarum ......................... 38 Pinus nigra........................................ 26 Pinus sylvestris .................................. 26 Pinus wallichiana .............................. 26 Plantago lanceolata.......................... 36 Plantago major ................................. 36 Plantago media ................................ 36 Poa annua ........................................ 43 Poa pratensis .................................... 43 Poa trivialis ....................................... 43 Polygala vulgaris .............................. 28 Polygonum aviculare ss..................... 33 Polypodium interjectum .................... 26 Polypodium vulgare .......................... 26 Polystichum setiferum ...................... 26 Populus tremula ............................... 30 Populus x canadensis ......................... 30 Populus x canescens .......................... 30 Potamogeton berchtoldii .................. 39 Potamogeton crispus ........................ 40 Potamogeton natans ........................ 40 Potentilla anglica .............................. 28 Potentilla anserina ............................ 28 Potentilla argentea ........................... 28 Potentilla erecta ............................... 29 Potentilla reptans ............................. 29 Potentilla sterilis ............................... 29 Primula veris ..................................... 34 Primula vulgaris ................................ 34

Prunella vulgaris ............................... 37 Prunus avium .................................... 29 Prunus cerasifera .............................. 29 Prunus domestica ............................. 29 Prunus laurocerasus.......................... 29 Prunus spinosa .................................. 29 Pseudotsuga menziesii ...................... 26 Pteridium aquilinum ......................... 25 Quercus petraea ............................... 30 Quercus robur ................................... 30 Quercus xrosacea .............................. 30 Ranunculus acris ............................... 27 Ranunculus aquatilis sl. ..................... 27 Ranunculus auricomus ...................... 27 Ranunculus bulbosus......................... 27 Ranunculus flammula ....................... 27 Ranunculus parviflorus ...................... 27 Ranunculus repens ............................ 27 Reseda luteola .................................. 32 Rhamnus cathartica .......................... 29 Ribes nigrum ..................................... 27 Ribes uva-crispa ................................ 27 Robinia pseudoacacia ....................... 27 Rosa canina agg., .............................. 29 Rubus fruticosus agg ......................... 29 Rumex acetosa ................................. 33 Rumex acetosella .............................. 33 Rumex obtusifolius ............................ 33 Rumex sanguineus ............................ 33 Sagina apetala .................................. 34 Sagina procumbens ss. ...................... 34 Salix caprea ...................................... 30 Salix cinerea ...................................... 30 Salix fragilis ...................................... 30 x Salix sepulcralis ............................... 30 Sambucus nigra ................................ 39 Sanicula europaea ............................ 39 Saxifraga tridactylites ....................... 27 Schedonorus pratensis ..................... 43 Schedonorus giganteus ..................... 43 Scorzoneroides autumnalis ............... 38 Scrophularia auriculata ..................... 36 Scrophularia nodosa ......................... 36 Sedum acre ....................................... 27 Sedum album .................................... 27 Senecio jacobaea .............................. 38 Sequoia sempervirens ....................... 26 Sequoiadendron giganteum .............. 26 Sherardia arvensis............................. 35

Silene dioica ...................................... 34 Silene flos-cuculi ................................ 34 Sisymbrium officinale ........................ 33 Solanum dulcamarum ....................... 35 Sonchus oleraceus ............................. 38 Sorbus aucuparia .............................. 29 Sparganium erectum......................... 40 Spergularia rubra .............................. 34 Stachys sylvatica ............................... 37 Stellaria graminea............................. 33 Stellaria media .................................. 33 Symphoricarpos albus ....................... 39 Tamus communis .............................. 40 Taraxacum laevigatum agg. .............. 38 Taraxacum officinale agg. ................. 38 Taxus baccata ................................... 26 Thymus polytrichus ........................... 37 Tilia cordata ...................................... 32 Tilia x europaea ................................. 32 Torilis japonica .................................. 39 Trifolium dubium............................... 27 Trifolium repens ................................ 28 Trisetum flavescens ........................... 43 Tussilago farfara ............................... 39 Typha latifolia ................................... 40 Ulex europaeus ................................. 28 Ulmus glabra .................................... 29 Urtica dioica...................................... 29 Verbascum thapsus ........................... 36 Veronica agrestis .............................. 35 Veronica arvensis .............................. 35 Veronica beccabunga ........................ 36 Veronica catenata ............................. 36 Veronica filiformis ............................. 36 Veronica hederifolia .......................... 36 Veronica montana ............................ 36 Veronica officinalis ............................ 36 Veronica persica................................ 36 Veronica serpyllifolia ......................... 36 Vicia sativa ....................................... 28 Vicia sepium ...................................... 28 Viola odorata .................................... 30 Viola reichenbachiana ....................... 30 Viola riviniana ................................... 30 Viscum album ................................... 33 Vulpia myuros ................................... 43 Zannichellia palustris ........................ 40