Wildflowers of Ireland

When Zoe Devlin was shown a wild orchid by a relative, the late Dr Kathleen Lynn, it sparked a lifelong interest in wildflowers. Here is Zoe's personal record of the wildflowers that adorn Ireland's countryside, presented so those without botanical knowledge can gain a greater understanding of the subject. Passionate about this often-overlooked part of our natural heritage, Zoe embellishes descriptions and photographs of the plants with herbal and literary references and related Irish folklore. She describes over 400 commonly found wildflowers as well as some not so-common and even rare species. This book creates a new awareness and wider picture of the world of wildflowers in Ireland.

In presenting this book, Zoe Devlin says: 'Conservation of our wildflowers is of the utmost importance as they are now facing threats on several different sides', and she expresses a hope that 'through education and awareness of the diversity of our wildflowers, perhaps, just perhaps, the tide can be held back a little longer.'

Zoe Devlin on Yellow-rattle: ...I first recorded this species in 1976 at Rossadillisk, County Galway. The plants were flowering in a beautiful old meadow by the sea, jostling for space among a number of other wildflowers, all crowded together, their heads swaying and tossing in the breeze. The hidden Corncrakes were calling 'Crex Crex' and it seemed as if time had passed it by altogether. It was both a sight and a feeling I shall never forget ...

Ireland's countryside teems with wild flowers, each an intrinsic part of the landscape and of an ecosystem that supports birds, insects and other wildlife. This beautifully presented book is her personal record of Ireland's wild flowers, as seen and photographed by Zoe, who is passionate about this often-overlooked part of our natural heritage.