Ophioglossum vulgatum Adder's-tongue C DD N elashr
This is a fern but it doesn't look like one. It is also quite difficult to find because it is so well camouflaged in its usual grassland habitat. This particular site is right by a path through the dunes but you still have to look hard to be able to find this plant and then, when you see one, you suddenly notice how plentiful it is. The spike is the fertile frond which bears the sporangia containing the spores.
It is found throughout England, Wales, Ireland and Southern Scotland but is less common in the high hills of the north.
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Newborough Warren LHS: 13th August 2001 RHS 29th May 2008
Added on January 30th 2005, updated 29th May 2008