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Harlequin ladybird (Harmonia axyrilis) on hawthorn (Crateagus monogyna)
Harlequins are originally from Asia and are a threat to native British wildlife. They are the fastest spreading alien species on record.
Lee Sycamore, Nottinghamshire, April 2010
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Cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera 'Atropurpurea')
One of the earliest trees to flower in Europe, with a distinctive purple foliage. Commonly used in housing areas, the fruit can be used to make intensely coloured jam.
Ben Betts, Nottinghamshire, May 2010
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Summer Meadow
An insect's eye view of a grass sward in early summer. Letting grass grow slightly longer greatly increases its value to wildlife and can reduce costs of maintenance.
Helena Singleton, Nottinghamshire, June 2010
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Forest Way School, Coalville. Times Best New Build Primary School 2009
Sculptures in Ancaster Limestone by Patsy Kell; 'Water, Fire and Earth'. Benches in English oak by Orchard Street Furniture.
David Singleton, Leicestershire, January 2009
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Forget-me-not (Myosotis species)
Legend has it that the Christ child said that he wished future generations could see Mary's eyes. He touched her eyes and waved his hand over the ground, and the forget-me-nots appeared.
Helena Singleton, Leicestershire, May 2009
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Wych elm (Ulmus glabra)
Despite the ravages of Dutch elm disease in the 1970's, this rough-leaved tree is still common in Midlands hedges. 'Glabra' means 'rough'.
David Singleton, Nottinghamshire, May 2010
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Yellow flag iris (Iris pseudoacorus)
A native British plant, striking and common in wetlands, the yellow flag is proving highly invasive in other parts of the world. The 'fleur de lys' is a stylized version of the flower. The Scout movement uses it to symbolize the outdoors and wilderness.
Lee Sycamore, Nottinghamshire, June 2010
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Hop (Humulus lupulus)
Common hops are increasingly found in the hedgerows of the northern counties of England. The female flowers are famously used in brewing beer.
Lee Sycamore, Nottinghamshire, June 2010