Plants @ Peartree 

2,350 pyramidal orchids Anacamptis pyramidalis were counted on Peartree Green in 2024 (over 350 more than in 2023)

Kidney vetch Anthyllis vulneraria. Traditional herbalists used this to treat kidney and other health problems. It is also the sole foodplant of the Small Blue butterfly 

Greater knapweed Centaurea scabiosa, is typically found on chalky soils and very attractive to butterflies

Lucerne or Alfalfa Medicago sativa, originally from southeast Asia, is a popular plant for bees and butterflies

Pineappleweed Matricaria discoidea, introduced from northeast Asia in the 19th century, is tolerant of disturbance and often found in rough areas 

Lady's bedstraw Galium verum. Historically used for curdling milk in cheesemaking and as straw for stuffing pillows, where its name probably comes from 

Common restharrow Ononis repens. Named after its propensity to clog up farm machinery in days gone by

Chicory Cichorium intybus. Thought to be an ancient introduction, chicory has various medical uses and the roots have been traditionally used as a coffee substitute

Wallflower cabbage Coincyia monensis. This sighting, in June 2023, was the first of this species on the Green since 2012

Dog-rose Rosa canina, this one being an unusual thornless example so possibly a garden escape. Rosehips are a good source of vitamin C and can be used in jams and jellies 

Himalayan bramble Rubus armeniacus, an invasive species from the Caucasus (not Himalayas!). One of around 150 types of bramble in Britain

Goat's beard Tragopogon pratensis, also called Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon as the flower closes by 1pm

Japanese rose Rosa rugosa, a common garden escape

Crow garlic or Wild onion Allium vineale. One of eight garlic species found in Southampton (one of two native species, the other six having been introduced)

Field bindweed Convolvulus arvensis, a vigorous plant that can smother other plants

Sulphur cinquefoil Potentilla recta, a species tolerant of disturbance, is thought to have been introduced to Britain from the Mediterranean region in the 17th century 

Common St John's wort Hypericum perforatum. The name originates from its flowering and harvesting time, around St John’s Day (24th June)