Wildflowers hold a special place in the UK’s landscape, and in people’s hearts. From carpets of bluebells in spring woodlands to vibrant meadow mixes buzzing with life, our native species are both culturally iconic and ecologically vital. With National Wildflower Week shining a spotlight on their importance, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the blooms that define our countryside. The likes of primroses, poppies and snowdrops often make it to the top of list. More broadly, public appreciation is also growing, with around 75%1 of people wanting more wildflower meadows in towns and cities, creating a powerful reminder of their role in boosting wellbeing and our connection to nature.
Here are some of the John Chambers Wildflower team’s favourites….
Georgia Gilbert – Head of Wildflower
My favourite is Field Forget-me-not (Myosotis arvensis). I love how bright blue it can be but each individual flower is so delicate. It’s an early flowering species and can be used in a flowering lawn, or a shaded area or even green roofs in some scenarios. Forget-me-not is also used to represent awareness around Dementia – a cause which is close to my heart. I even have a tattoo of it on my foot!
Emily Murray – Wildflower & Environmental Projects Researcher
Meadow crane’s-bill (Geranium pratense) is my favourite wildflower because it grows wild and untamed. I love it’s rich purple tones (my favourite colour) and how it can grow almost anywhere. In my garden, I collect hardy geraniums and currently have 11 different species, but meadow crane’s-bill still stands out for me. I enjoy seeing the haze of purple when I’m out for walks, sprawling chaotically.
Roger Amies-King – Wildflower Account Manager
I’m going to choose Harebell (Campanula rotundifolia). When I joined the JC team, I was enthused by my newly acquired knowledge of wildflowers. In addition to now being able to name more than just dandelions I was on the lookout for less common species. When we went to stay in Hawkswick, in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, my first “find” was a lovely patch of Harebell, hence my choice.
Jason Brits – Wildflower Production Supervisor
I’d say Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a cool wildflower for me. Sometimes referred to as “Blue Sailors” – they have light blue tones, jagged ends, and a sense of resilience by being drought-tolerant.
