Save the Bluebell in Scotland
07 December 2007
Why do we need to save the Bluebell in Scotland?
Over recent years, the Bluebell, otherwise known as the Wild Hyacinth, has declined in abundance and is now regarded as a 'species of conservation concern'.
The two main causes are the loss of of habitat and hybridisation with the non-native Spanish Bluebell.
The Spanish Bluebell is very different to the British Bluebell, and has been planted in the wild, or escaped from gardens over the last 50 years to inter-breed with the British variety, producing a hybrid. Both of these new varieties spread across the country much quicker than the native variety is able, and are taking over once purely native Bluebell woods. Plus, Bluebells are very specific about the habitat they will grow in. They like broadleaf woodlands that are at least 20 years old with a closed canopy giving them dappled sunlight. They will also sometimes grow under very old neglected hedgerows.
The quantity and quality of suitable habitat has declined dramatically during the 20th century, but thanks to work by environmental bodies, such as Central Scotland Forest Trust, the Woodland Trust and SWT over the last 30 years, there are now woodlands just right for Bluebells.
What now?
The main problem now, is how to get the Bluebells into the right environments for them to thrive. They will naturally colonise given time, and letting nature take its course is usually the best way, but because of the speed at which the Spanish Bluebell would take over, we've decided to give the native ones a helping hand.
How can you help?
We will be arranging a series of Bluebell planting events across the Forest area during April, May and June. Keep an eye on our website and the local press to see what's happening in your area.
With bells on...
We want to build up a picture of how both native and Spanish Bluebells are faring cross the Central Belt, so we know where to try and target action to help the native ones, and will be distributing leaflets and postcards for you to record your Bluebell sightings and send into us. Along side this, we will be running a photograph competition, so you can send in your best photos of Bluebell woodlands and be in with a chance to win a garden centre voucher for your, your school or local greenspace.
