Half of all bluebells grow in the UK

It’s true – according to the National Trust almost half of all the world’s Bluebells can be found right here in the UK.

Often found in forest and woodlands – ancient or semi-natural woodlands are their preferred habitats. They generally flower between mid April and late May.

Illegal to pick

Despite their abundance, it is a protected species and actually against the law to pick or destroy Bluebells. They can take years to recover from any damage inflicted by clumsy visitors, and a Bluebell colony can take up to 7 years to get properly established.

You can grow them yourself – they are known under many guises such as English Bluebell and Wild Hyacinth to Cuckoo’s Boots, Lady’s Nightcap and Witches’ Thimbles!

Bluebell Spotting Tips
Viewing from afar is the safest option and gives the most pleasing view – they grow close together and in such numbers that from a distance they form an endless violet-blue carpet on the forest floor.

However, ensure you plant the English Bluebell variety and not the Spanish version. This Iberian interloper is a more vigorous plant and could out-compete our more delicate native variety.

Grow your own

Bluebells like partial shade though they’ll grow in full sun too, and beneath a deciduous tree is ideal. Plant in late summer, August and September for flowers in the spring time. Both Suttons Seeds and Waitrose Garden offer a range of bulb packs.