This is a work in progress. I have not yet uploaded all my photographs.
The species are in order of plant family which is in alphabetical rather than (conventional) taxanomic order. The first photograph is a picture of the "railway vegetation" growing along the disused railway between Stoke-on-Trent and Leek. This railway passes through Endon and provides one of the best sites for botanising in our area.
Reference works I have used to identify species and to inform text are: Hawksford, J. E., Hopkins, I. J., Cadman, D., Hill, R. N., Lawley, S. D., Leak, A., Radford, E., Reynolds, J. R., Steward, D., and Waller, R., (2011) The Flora of Staffordshire, Staffordshire Wildlife trust. England; Rose, F. and O'Reilly, C. (2006) The Wildflower Key Frederick Warne; Harrap, S., Harrap's Wild Flowers Bloomsbury; Phillips, R., Grasses, Ferns, Mosses & Lichens of Great Britain and Ireland Macmillan Reference.
Railway vegetation between Endon and Denford in 2007.
Members of Alismataceae (Water Plantain family)
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Arrowhead Sagittaria sagittifolia is a native species which , in Staffordshire, is mainly found in canals. This clump is protected from excessive water turbulence by growing in the overflow pound adjacent to the top lock at Stockton Brook. Flowers July and August.
Water Plantain Alisma plantago-aquatica or perhaps A. lanceolatum also flowers in late summer. This species is not particularly common in NE Staffordshire. This patch was photographed along the Caldon Canal between Endon and Denford. It will grow in wet ditches and the edge of muddy ponds but I know of no other examples in our area.
Members of Apiaceae (Carrot family).
I think this is the very common Cow Parsley Anthriscus sylvestris which forms extensive patches along the Caldon Canal towpath, roadsides and hedge bases from April to June. Great plant for nectaring insects.
Ground Elder Aegopodium podagraia is often disliked by gardeners as it is a difficult "weed" to eliminate. It is not a native species having originated on mainland Europe where it is a woodland species. This patch is growing at the base of a stone wall along Brook Lane in Endon. Garden pest though it may be, it is well used by nectaring insects.
I have only ever found Pignut Conopodium majus, which is an ancient woodland indicator species growing in the woodland plantation by Stanley Head. Presumably these plant are remnants of an ancient woodland which once grew on this site. Pignut flowers in May and June.
Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium is another common umbellifer in Endon which grows in hedge bottoms, along road verges and on wasteland. These ones were photographed growing along the disused railway between Endon and Stockton Brook. Hogweed flowers June to July and is highly attractive to hoverflies, flies, short-tongued bees etc.
Wild Angelica Angelica sylvestris grows in damp places such as the edges of wet fields and along the Caldon Canal. The umbel of white flowers which are open between June to September are also very attractive to nectaring insects.
The Araceae family 
I know of only ne patch of Lords and Ladies Arum maculatum in the Endon area, though I expect it does grow in other places. This one is growing at the hedge bottom along canal towpath at Stockton Brook. There is more in the planted copse on the opposite side of the canal. The central spadix (or flower spike) appears between May and June, while the red berries appear from July to August.
Araliaceae - the Ivy family.
Ivy Hedera helix is, of course, very common in Endon. This plant, with its attendant insects, is growing on a garden wall by a public footpath in Stanley. Ivy flowers July to December and provides a valuable source of nectar for late flying insects such as the wasp shown in this picture. It also provides shelter (being dry under the evergreen leaves) for insects, birds and perhaps other creatures. Wrens, in particular, seem to like to place their nest in a cover of ivy.
Members of Daisy (Asteraceae) family growing in the wild in and around Endon 2013.
Coltsfoot Tusilago farfara This plant appeared in my vegetable patch. Coltsfoot used to grow on the railway line up until the Churnet Valley Railway volunteers applied weed killer along the route a year or so after Moorlands and City Railways announced they sere to reopen the line (which they never did). Presumably seeds from the railway blew in to my garden.
Butterbur Petasites hybridus, a native, perennial species, does grow on the disused railway. It forms a large stand on the section between Station Road and the "white bride" on the Caldon Canal. From here it has spread into a neighbouring field and on to the canal towpath. Perhaps surprisingly it does not grow on the other side (between Station Road and Park Lane) of the level crossing. However this was, until recently, more heavily shaded by trees and is probably drier than the damp soils of the Stockton Brook side of the level crossing. In spring the Butterbur provides a lovely sight, and is a good early source of nectar for insects. The photo of Butterbur along the disused railway was taken in April 2011.
Common Fleabane Pulicaria dysentrica. This clump was spotted amongst the vegetation fringing the Caldon Canal between Endon and Denford. I know of no other site for this native species in Endon. perhaps it will be lost when the canal towpath is upgraded in to a cycle path. A native species that flowers between July and September.
Yarrow Achelliea millefolium. This rather scrappy plant was growing along the disused railway line in 2013. It is one of the few that survived the weed killing sessions, perhaps because it is a perennial species. It probably grows in other grassy places in Endon. A native species that flowers from June to August.
Blue Fleabane Erigeron acer is another species of the local "railway vegetation". Presumably, as with certain other members of the railway vegetation, it has fallen from trucks carrying sand or limestone from nearby quarries in which the plant was growing. The railway ballast on which the tracks are laid provides the calcareous substrate that this species requires. Flowers July to August.
Sneezewort, Acheliia ptarmiga I only spotted growing in Endon, on the disused raiwlay line for the first time in 2015, however I'm told it has been there for some time.
Common Ragwort Senecio jacobaea flowers June to October. It grows along disused railway line, pastures and other grassy places. This is a great pant for insects, supplying lots of nectar. It is the food plant of Cinnabar Moths whose caterpillars have evolved to be able to eat the poisonous leaves of ragwort. They in turn are distasteful to potential predators (e.g. birds) who quickly learn to avoid orange and black striped caterpillars. See photos below.
Antler Moth on ragwort along the railway line.
Cinnabar moth caterpillars feeding on ragwort leaves on the disused railway line.
This is Creeping Thistle Cirsium arvense a very common and persistent garden and agricultural weed. This one was growing on the disused railway line, but it also occurs in neglected fields, gardens and many other places. Though it ma be unwelcome in gardens and pastures it supplies nectar to many insects and the seeds are eaten by birds such as Goldfinch. Flowers July to September. The thistle pictured below is Spear Thistle Cirsium vulgare. It is not so frequently found in Endon as is Creeping Thistle. Flowers July to October and is also useful for its nectar and seeds.
This is the third thistle species found in the Endon area. It is Marsh Thistle Cirsium palustre. As its name suggests, it grows in damp places. This group was photographed in a poorly drained low point between the Caldon Canal and disused railway at Hazelhurst Junction. Marsh Thistles flower July to October and are also a good source of nectar and seed for other wildlife.
Daisy Bellis perennis a native perennial species which grows both in "the wild" in Endon and as a garden weed. This plant was growing along the Caldon Canal Towpath. It has also managed to survive the ravages of weed killer and strimming in other parts of Endon, possibly through repeated recolonisation through seed dispersal.
Fox and Cubs Pillosella aurantiaca is an introduced plant that has naturalised over much of the British Isles. In Endon it is found growing along Brook Lane. I know of no other site in Endon, but it probably occurs in other places, such as garden lawns. Flowers June to October.
Prickly Sowthistle Sonchus asper colonises disturbed ground. This one was growing along the Caldon canal towpath. An annual native species that flowers in June - October. Given its "parachute"-like seeds I expect this common native species will be found growing in other places in our parish.
Another Sowthistle, this time Perennial Sowthistle Sonchus arvensis. Perhaps these plants have benefitted from the reduction in Staffs County Council verge mowing regimes (due to budget cuts) and this is why they have managed to produce some flowers by the Caldon Canal bridge. This species flowers rather late in the year, the books say mid July - August, though I took this photo in October 2013, during which we experienced a mild and late autumn.
Smooth Sowthistle Sonchus oleraceous is also very common as a garden weed, on waste ground such as the disused railway and in muddy deposits at the side of roads. This photo shows a similar weedy place by the side of "The Plough".
Smooth Sowthistle Sonchus oleraceous is also very common as a garden weed, on waste ground such as the disused railway and in muddy deposits at the side of roads. This photo shows a similar weedy place by the side of "The Plough".
This is one of the Inula species. probably Inula helenium growing at the base of a stone wall in Brook Lane. Presumably it is a garden escape. It is well used by insects and a pretty addition to our diversity of "wild" plants in Endon.
This dandelion-like plant is Goat's Beard Tragopogon pratensis. I have only ever seen this species growing along the disused railway line. Flowers May to July.
Here is the very familiar Dandelion Taraxacum agg. The "agg." is used because Dandelions are a collection of "hundreds of closely similar microspecies" Rose. F., and O'Reillly, C. (2006)
Another familiar "weed" is Groundsel Senecio vulgaris. This plant is growing in the crack between the base of a wall and the tarmac footpath. Groundsel is a ruderal species and hence should be found growing on disturbed/bare ground such as recently cultivated soils and other disturbed places.
Here is another dandelion-like flower. This one is a Hawkweed which, as is the case with Dandelion is an aggregate of many similar species hence the scientific name of Heracium agg. These attractive flowers brighten up the walk along the disused railway during summer and are attractive to insects, as show in this photo.
Nipplewort Lapsana communis is another plant of disturbed ground. Here growing along the disused railway, but it also grows in cracks at wall bases and in silty debris in roadside gutters, and probably in local gardens as a garden weed as it does in my garden. It is a native species that begins to flower in April and continues until October.
Oxeye Daisy Leucanthemum vulgare This example of this native daisy grows amongst the stones of a wall in Brook lane, Endon. This species can also be found growing along the disused railway. Its perennial habit has probably allowed it to survive years of "tidying up" of local verges which takes place before the well dressing. festival in May.
Another member of a difficult to distinguish range of species, though I think this one is Mouse-ear-hawkweed Pilosella officinarum. To my knowledge these rather delicate-looking plants are only found growing along the disused railway. They flower between May and August.
Mugwort Artemesia vulgaris was introduced into Britain in ancient times. Crush the leaves and smell to get a flavour of its stronger cousin Artemesia absinthum. I have only ever found this growing along the disused railway. Flowers July and August.
This clump of Tansey Tanacetum vulgare is growing in my garden. However the seed arrived by natural means, probably from the disused railway line, as it is the only other place in Endon where I have seen it. Flowers Jul to September and is attractive to many short-tongued insects, see below.
Hoverflies feeding on Tansey.
Pineappleweed Matricaria discoidea grow as a "weed" in my garden, though it is ne I am pleased to see because of its lovely smell when crushed. Presumably it is found in other gardens in Endon and probably along the disused railway. Flowers May to November.
Balsaminaceae - Balsam family
Bankside vegetation on Endon Brook summer 2013 including a patch of Himalayan Balsam (not yet in flower).
Himalayan Balsam Impatiens glandulifera flowers between July and October. It is a highly invasive species that grows along Endon Brook (by the railway bridge between Station Rd. and Park Lane), along the railway line, along the brook from Endon riding School where it passes by Station Rd. It flowers from July to October and is a good source of nectar for long-tongued insects such as certain bumble bees and honey bees.
Orange Balsam Impatiens capensis grows by Caldon Canal near the Post lane bridge. It appears to be spreading along the canal fringe. Its orange flowers appear in June to September.
Sparganiaceae - the Bur-reed family
A new discovery for me in 2015 is Branched Bur-reed, Sparganium erectum growing in Endon Brook where it passes under the disused railway line. Perhaps I simply overlooked it until now or it originates from seeds carried in by birds> of course it could have come from a fragment detatched from further upstream and established here, however i can't think of any places upstream that may hold this species.
Distant view of Branched Bur-reed in Endon Brook.
Green Alkanet Pentaglottis sempervirens grows at the base of a wall in Brook Lane, Endon. It is not a naïve species. its original home is Europe, perhaps these are the results of a garden escape. Flowers may to July.
I haven't yet identified this Forget-me-not Myosotis sp. to species level. However Forget-me-nots are found in a hedgerow in Post Lane, Endon, along the railway and as a weed in my, and presumably others, garden(s.) Flowers in spring. Some f-m-n are not native, being introduced as garden plants and have since "escaped" in to the wild.
This is Tufted Forget-me-not Myosotis laxa/caespitosa which I have only seen growing alongside my garden wildlife pond. It has a very small flower (May to August) so I may have missed its presence in other places. I suspect it grows in other wet places in the Endon area.
Lungwort Pulmonaria officinalis can be found growing along the disused railway line by Station Road. Lungwort is an introduced species (from Central Europe) and was at one time used for medicinal purposes. It is now used as a garden plant from which some have escaped in to the wild. Lungwort flowers very early in the year, sometimes from January onwards and provides a good source of nectar for early flying insects. (Photo to follow)
Brassicacaea the Cabbage family.
Hairy Bitter Cress Cardamine hirsute is a very abundant garden "weed". This one was photographed in my garden and I assume it occurs in many other gardens in and around Endon. Hairy Bitter Cress also grows amongst cracks in hard surfaces such as between paving stones. In Endon it grows on the abandoned railway platform along with other plants of similar habits. Flowers March to September.
This is Wavy Bitter Cress Cardamine flexuosa growing in the stream that runs alongside the public footpath by Stanley Head (the stream goes it to Stanley pool). This species probably grows in similar habitats around Endon. Flowers March to September.
Another member of the Cardamine genus that grows near Endon is the Large Bitter Cress C. amara. Large Bitter cress is another ancient woodland indicator. These plants were photographed alongside a small stream (Horton Brook) that passes through fields in the Holehouse area just outside Endon village. Flower April to June.
Then final member of the Cardamine genus I have found growing in Endon is Lady's Smock or Cuckoo Flower C. pratensis. It is common in rushy pastures. It flowers in May to June and is one of the food plants of the caterpillars of the Orange Tip butterfly, hence the adult females often seen to fly around areas in which Lady's Smock is present.
Charlock Sinapis arvensis is not particularly common in Endon. I have only ever seen one or two plants growing in my garden (as a weed) and only in the last few years. I have also seen it growing in a wildflower mix outside a bungalow in Post Lane. Charlock is a weed of arable agriculture which has not been widely practiced in Endon, perhaps since WW2. I wonder if those in Post Lane my plants originated from wild bird seed or in packets of green manure that I buy to grow in my garden? Alternatively as Charlock is now more common in disturbed soils alongside road workings so perhaps they were transferred along with mud on contractor's vehicles when the road was resurfaced a few years ago. Flowers May to August.
Salt damage to road verge vegetation - spring 2013.
Danish Scurvygrass Colchlearia Danica is a sea shore plant that has spread along winter salted roadsides and railway lines. In Endon I have only yet seen it along the A53 near the Black Horse pub (see photo above). Extensive roadside strips flower between February and June.
Thale Cress Aradopsis thaliana is abundant on the trackbed of the disused railway. Flowers April to July.
Hedge Garlic or Garlic Mustard Allaria petiolata flowers between April and July. Widely seen in hedge bottoms in the Endon area. As with Honesty and Lady's Smock it is one of the food plants of the caterpillars of the Orange Tip butterfly.
Honesty Lunaria annua is not a native species to the British Isles. This one growing alongside a garden hedge beside a public footpath in Stockton Brook (by Greenway Hall golf Club) is clearly a garden escape. This species is also found under trees by Alder House. Honesty flowers early in the year and leaves behind its distinctive oval/round seed pods over winter. Honesty may not be a native species but it is a useful source of nectar for early-flying insects and it is used as a larval food plant of the Orange Tip butterfly.
This is probably Wall Witlowgrass Draba muralis (I need to confirm ID). It grows on the railway ballast by the disused railway platform which, being limestone, is similar to its natural habitat in base-rich (calcareous) rocky places. Flowers April to May.
Shepherd's Purse Capsella bursa-pastoris is a frequent weed in my garden, and I assume many others. May be seen flowering all year round in the right conditions.
My garden is the only place I have seen Lesser Swine Cress Coronopus didymus growing in Endon. It appeared several years after I started to cultivate my plot. As Endon is not a traditional arable area and Lesser Swine Cress is a plant of arable and disturbed ground I suspect it may have come in with packets of green manure. It is an introduced species originatly from Central America. The diminutive flowers appear in July to September. I know of no other sites for this species in Endon.
Using my binoculars to look across the Caldon Canal towards lawn Farm to getter a better view of this otherwise inaccessible plant (on private land), this looks like Watercress to me. However Water Cress Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum hybridises with R. microphylla to produce R. sterilis, so it could be either of these three species. Flowers May to October.
Campanulaceae the Bellflower family.
Harebell Campanula rotundifoilia grows along the disused railway between Endon and Denford. It is a plant of dry places such as dry grasslands and sand dunes. It is able to grow in Endon as it finds the right conditions amongst the open (unshaded) sections of ballast on the disused railway. Flowers July to September.
Elderberry Sambucus nigra is common in local hedgerows from where it is dispersed by birds. The spring flowers provide plenty of nectar for insects and then at the end of summer the berries are valued as a food source for birds.
Honeysuckle Lonicera periclymenum scrambles up regrowth of coppiced trees on the disused railway and is also found in the woodland plantation alongside Stanley Head. The scented flowers are attractive to long-tongued insects and are during June to September. It is an ancient woodland indicator however I suspect it arrived on the railway in bird deroppings and could well have been planted up by Stanley Head as the shrub and tree species mix there has all the signs of being a recent (1970s -1980s) woodland creation scheme.
Guelder Rose Viburnum opulus also grows in the woodland/plantation at Stanley head and is highly likely to be the result of a planting scheme (see above). Flowers June to July and fruits September to October.
Snowberry Symphocarpos albus grows alongside the Caldon Canal near Stanley Road, plus a few other places. it is clearly a garden escape from the big abandoned house by the canal bridge. Snowberry can be a highly invasive nuisance species, growing into extensive competitive patches which may then crowd out our native flora. In Endon/Stockton Brook it does not appear to be particularly detrimental so far. Its flowers (June to September) provide a source of nectar for insects and its white berries may be eaten by birds.
Guelder Rose Viburnum opulus also grows in the woodland/plantation at Stanley head and is highly likely to be the result of a planting scheme (see above). Flowers June to July and fruits September to October.
Snowberry Symphocarpos albus grows alongside the Caldon Canal near Stanley Road, plus a few other places. it is clearly a garden escape from the big abandoned house by the canal bridge. Snowberry can be a highly invasive nuisance species, growing into extensive competitive patches which may then crowd out our native flora. In Endon/Stockton Brook it does not appear to be particularly detrimental so far. Its flowers (June to September) provide a source of nectar for insects and its white berries may be eaten by birds.
Caryophyllacaea the Campion family.
This is Sticky Mouse Ear Cerastium glomeratum. It is found growing in closely grazed pastures and silage fields around Endon. Flowers April to September.
This is another Cerstium sp. probably Field Mouse Ear C. arvense as with the Sticky Mouse Ear, grows in fairly sparse pastures and silage fields. Flowers April to September.
Greater Stitchwort Stellaria holostea is found growing amongst lush grasses in hedge bottoms, old hedge banks and woodlands in the Endon area. Where it occurs on old hedge banks e.g. Holehouse Lane, Endon, it may be a relic of the ancient wildwood from which the fields and hedges were fashioned. Flowers April to June.
Lesser Stitchwort Stellaria graminea flowers a little later than Greater Stitchwort - May to August. This patch was photographed near Stanley Pool where it grows on the causeway . Probably occurs in similar grassy habitats in other sites in Endon.
Procumbent Pearlwort Sagina procumbens grows on compact soils, in cracks in paving and tarmac. It is a small plant and may be mistaken for moss by the inexperienced botanist. In my garden it is a "weed" of the more clayey parts of my plot and I assume it is present in many other gardens in the Endon area. The tiny flowers are present in May to September.
I only know of one site where Ragged Robin Lychnis flos-cuculi grows in the Endon area, that is the marshy area next to Hazelhurst Junction. I have collected seed from these plants and hope to get Ragged Robin established in my wildflower meadow in my garden. Flowers May to August.
Red Campion Silene dioica flowers between April and October. It grows in certain hedge bottoms in the Endon area and along the disused railway line by the white bridge.
Chickweed Stellaria media is a common weed of fertile soil. it is a weed in my garden and I assume many others in the Endon area. Flowers all year round given the right weather.
Chenopodiaceae the Goosefoot family.
Fat Hen Chenopodium album is a garden "weed" some of which I always allow to go to seed in my vegetable patch as it provides a source of autumn/winter seed for overwintering birds. I assume it grows in other Endon gardens and other disturbed ground, although it may have been introduced into my garden along with green manures.
Another Goosefoot possibly Fig-leaved Goosefoot Chenopodium ficifolium plus see above for situations in Endon.
Clusiaceae - St John's Wort family.
This photograph of Square-stemmed St. John's Wort Hypericum tetrapterum was taken in my garden plot where this plant appeared about three years ago. It is growing in a damp ditch which is its typical habitat. I assume the seeds were brought in on a bird's foot, in flood water or blown in is . As of yet I have not seen this species anywhere else in Endon, Flowers June to September.
This is Perforate St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum growing along the disused railway line which is the only place that this species is seen in the Endon area. I suspect the original seeds of this species were spilled along the track amongst sand or limestone being transported in railway trucks. Flowers June to September. The picture below shows this species growing along the railway track between Endon and Denford in 2007.
Perforate St John's Wort, part of the local "railway vegetation".
Hedge Bindweed Calystega sepium scrambles up hedges in farmland, gardens and public places around Endon. This on was photographed growing along the Caldon Canal towpath. Flowers July - September.
Field Bindweed Convulvulus arvensis growing amongst other herbaceous vegetation along railway by near Hazelhurst Junction.
Dipsacaceae the Teasel family.
Devil's Bit Scabious Succisa pretensis grows along the disused railway line This species and the one below finds a refuge on the railway ballast where it is mostly safe from farmer's and Parish Council weed killing. Devil's Bit Scabious used to grow in a small field with a public footpath which is situated above The Ashes; however for the past few years this field has been used to graze horses and the vegetation has become very badly trampled, the scabious may have gone! There were I have not seen it anywhere else in Endon. Flowers July to September.
For information about Field Scabious Knautia arvensis see info. about DB Scabious above. This photo was taken in 2011 which was before Churnet Valley Railway applied weedkiller following the announcement the Moorlands and City railways were to reopen the line (which they never did).
Teasel Dipsacus fullonum grows a long the disused railway. I know of no other places where it grows in Endon, though I expect, like me, other people grow it for its flowers that are attractive to insects and seeds that are eaten by Goldfinches. Flowers July and August.
Euphorbiaceae - spurge family.
Petty Spurge Euphorbia peplus has appeared as a frequent "weed" in my garden. presumably it grows in other gardens in Endon. I have not yet seen it in "the wild". Flowers May to November.
This is Dog's Mercury Mercurialis perennis it grows along Stoney Lane, Endon. It may be an ancient woodland indicator in this situation as I can well imagine that the bank above Stoney Lane (which is now the site of Victorian/Edwardian houses) was never subjected to the onslaughts of post war intensive agriculture. And so these plants may be a remnant from the time before agricultural "improvements" degraded many of our semi-natural habitats and native flora. Also grows along the disused railway line near Station Rd. Flowers February to April.
Fabaceae - the Pea Family.
Bird's Foot Trefoil Lotus corniculatus grows along the disused railway and amongst grasses in local pastures/silage fields. Its flowers, which appear between June and September are a good source of nectar for long-tongued insects.
White Clover Trifolium repens grows along the disused railway line, in local pastures/silage fields, along the canal towpath and as a garden weed. A very useful source of nectar for long-tongued bees and other insects. Flowers June to September.
Bush Vetch Vicia sepium grows along with the hedge bottom vegetation along the Caldon Canal towpath. It is also a "weed" in my garden, and I assume other local gardens. flowers April to August.
Black Medic Medicago lupulina is particularly associated with base rich (calcareous) soils which is why, in Endon, I have only ever found it growing on the limestone ballast of the disused railway. Flowers April to August.
Meadow Vetchling Lathyrus pratensis grows along the Caldon Canal towpath (amongst the fringing vegetation) and along the disused railway. Flowers May to August.
Tufted Vetch Vicia cracca scrambles amongst tall vegetation along the Caldon Canal towpath and the disused railway line. Flowers June to August.
I have only ever found Zig-zag Clover Trifolium medium growing on and near the causeway at Stanley Pool. Flowers June to September.
Red Clover Trifolium pratense grows in local pastures/silage fields where it may be an agricultural cultivar sown in lay mixes. Its flowers, which appear in May to September are a valuable source of nectar for long-tongued insects.
Gorse Ulex europaeus can flower all year round, though it mostly flowers between April and may. This plant, which I found in a field near a stream to the south of Holehouse Lane, Endon was flowering on 1st March 2014.
Gentianaceae the Centaury family.
Geranium family (Geraniaceae) found in Endon area 2013.
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| Geranium pratense on disused railway - I haven't yet seen this species anywhere else - I expect this is the progeny of a garden escape given it was seen near the former British Waterways house garden. |
G. robertianum this one growing on wall in Brook Lane, however it is frequently seen in many similar situations and on recently disturbed ground (including gardens) in the area.
G. lucidum this one seen on disused railway line - but many examples on recently disturbed ground. Particularly noticeable this year - especially on parts of railway, perhaps last year's application of weedkiller created appropriate conditions for this species to thrive.
Iridaceae - the Iris family.
Yellow Iris Iris foetidissima is a lovely addition to the canalside flora. Here it is growing near to the John Emery Land along the Caldon Canal towpath. Flowers May to July. Let's hope these clumps survive the upcoming upgrade of the canal towpath in to a cycle path.
Lemnaceae - duckweeds.
I don't know which Duckweed this is. However it seems most likely to be Common Duckweed Lemna minor. Here in this photo it is growing in the shallow water at the edge of the Caldon Canal where, presumably, it provides some cover for small fish and a source of food for certain birds (e.g. Moorhen). Appears June to July.
Liliaceae the Lily family.
These are the native Bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta growing in the strip of woodland adjacent to Greenway Hall Golf club Stockton Brook. This species is and Ancient Woodland Indicator and I could imagine how these clumps may be remnants of an ancient woodland at this site; perhaps they survived as part of an old hedge separating farms as they are growing in woodland which includes a public footpath that forms the boundary between properties along Greenway Bank Road and the Golf Club itself.
Snowdrops Galanthus nivalis can be an Ancient Woodland Indicator, however these plants are growing on the John Emery Land which was once part of the canal warf belonging to Endon flint and colour mill. The land is now managed by the Parish Council and has been planted with a variety of trees, and presumably, these Snowdrops. Flower January to April.
Ramsons Allium ursinum are another Ancient Woodland Indicator. In Endon I know only of the ones growing at the bottom of a hedge at top of Brook Lane. They may be a remnant of some long-gone ancient wood as they are growing in a relatively undeveloped part of the village (between the church and old house). It is surprising they have survived the annual May-time tidy up for the well dressing as this usually involves strimming and weed killing!
Onagracaea - the Willowherbs family.
I have included only three Eplilobium Spp. here. I expect there are more species in our area which I need to find and identify.
Broad-leaved Willowherb Eplilobium montanum growing on the disused railway line. This is a common "weed" of the Endon area found as a garden weed, in silty debris in roadside gutters, at in well-lit woodland (e.g. by Stanley Head) and as in the photo, along the railway. Flowers June to August.
Like Broad-leaved Willowherb, above, Rosebay Willowherb Epilobium angustifolium grows many places in Endon. Here it is growing alongside the Caldon Canal between Endon and Stockton Brook. Flowers July - September.
Great Willowherb Eplilobium hirsutum generally grows in damp places. In Endon and surrounds it is one of the constituents of the canalside reed fringe vegetation. Also grow as a "weed" in my garden and I assume others in the area. Flowers July to August.
These Enchanter's Nightshade Circaea lutetiana flowers were photographed in my garden where this species has established as a result of being brought in on muddy boots or dog fur. I know of no other place where it grows in Endon itself, however this species does grow in Deep Hayes Country Park. Flowers June to August.
Orchidacaea - the Orchid family.
A few Common Spotted Orchids Dactylorhiza fuchsii were to be found growing along the disused railway line and in a nearby pasture both between Endon and Denford. However I did not see any last year (2013). Perhaps the recent weed killing by the Churnet Valley Railway volunteers have eliminated the plants along the railway? This species is also found in small numbers in the grasslands in Deep Hayes Country Park.
Last year I was very surprised to find this Southern Marsh Orchid Dactylorhiza praetermissa growing in a damp corner of my garden plot. I had not seen this plant in the ten years since I have kept the plot, therefore I assume the seed had arrived two or three years before. According to Anne and Simon Harrap in their book "Orchids of Britain and Ireland (2009 edition) Southern Marsh Orchids flower two or three years after the seed germinates the seedling having spent those early years underground completely dependent on a fungal partner for nutrition. I do not use weed killer or artificial fertilizer and manage this area of my garden as a wildflower meadow, so presumable this is why this plant was able to successfully germinate and grow here. Southern Marsh Orchids flower between June and August. I have never seen any others growing in the Endon area.
Broad-leaved Helleborine Epipactis helleborine is, in my experience, the commonest orchid growing in the Endon area. This one appeared in the Methodist Church car park a couple of years ago. Well, we spotted its flowers a couple of years ago, perhaps it was there before and had gone unnoticed! They are also to be found growing along Holehouse Lane (Endon), in at least one garden up Stoney Lane (Endon), Deep Hayes Country Park and I once found one growing in a crack between the wall and tarmac of the Parish Council office (this one was eventually "removed" by the parish council gardeners!).
Oxalidaceae wood sorrel family
Wood Sorrel Oxalis acetosella is an ancient woodland indicatoand I like to think that these plants, which were photographed under a hedge that grows between Greenway Hall Golf Club and the Caldon Canal towpath, are a remnant of woodland that used to grow in this area. There are Bluebells, another ancient woodland indicator, growing a hundred or so metres away (beside the public footpath beside the golf course), and I can't image anyone planting either of these species in this particular situation. Wood Sorrel flowers between April and May. I hope these plants survive the conversion of the canal towpath in to a cycle route which is planned to take place in 2014.
Polygonacaea the Dock family.
Broad-leaved Dock Rumex obtusifolius is a very common garden "weed" and grows in local fields and waste ground. This one was photographed growing along the disused railway line. Flowers June to September.
This is Clustered Dock Rumex conglomeratus growing amongst the Caldon Canal reed fringe between Endon and Denford. I know of no others in our area, but maybe I have passed them over as being Broad-leaved Dock! Flowers July to September.
This is Water Dock Rumex hydrolapathum also growing along Caldon Canal between Endon and Denford. Being a waterside plant it is unlikely to be growing anywhere else but by the canal and any ponds in the area that support wetland vegetation. Flowers July to September.
Common Sorrel - Rumex acetosa is relatively common in pastures/silage fields in our area. This one was photographed in a rushy pasture near Stanley Head. It is also to be found at the edge of the nearby plantation/woodland . Flowers May to June.
Amphibious bistort Persicaria amphibian grows in the clayey soils of my garden plot, and I assume local fields and gardens with similar soil, however these plants probably don't produce flowers. You have to look in the waters of Stanley Pool during July to September to see this species in flower (it tends only to flower when growing in aquatic conditions). The subsequent seeds are a valuable source of food for dabbling ducks such as Teal and Mallard which probably visit the smaller of the two pools at Stanley reservoir during late summer and autumn specifically because of this ready supply of food.
Common Bistort Persicaria bistorta grows beside the stream which runs alongside the plantation woodland beside Stanley Head. I do not know of it growing anywhere else in the Endon area. Flowers June to August. NEED PHOTO
This is Redshank Persicaria maculosa. This species grows as a "weed" in my garden, and no doubt others in the area. May also grow in local fields. As with its relative Amphibious Bistort, its seeds are available source of late summer and autumn food for birds, so I always leave some to grow amongst my vegetables. Flowers June to October.
This Knotgrass, probably Polygonum aviculare is another garden "weed" which also provides a useful source of seed on which wild birds can feed. I have also seen this species growing along the Caldon Canal towpath and it probably occurs in other situations (e.g. fields and wasteland) in the Endon area. Flowers July to October.
This photo shows a weedy assemblage growing in the roadside gutter beside The Plough pub in Endon. This collection includes two Persicaria species, Redshank and Knotweed.
I don't have a photo of this species, however Japanese Knotweed Fallopia japonica the well-documented pernicious weed grows along the disused railway (near the old railway platform), along the canal towpath between Endon and Denford, in a hedge along the A53 and on top of a retaining stone wall in Brook Lane, Endon. The landowners at the second two sites have clearly attempted to eliminate this plant with glyphosate or another weed killer. The Canal and Rivers Trust have tried the same along the canal towpath. The patch which grows along the disused railway remains untreated. This species may grow in other sites in our area. Flowers August to October.
Another "knotweed" Persicaria growing as a "weed" in my garden yet to be identified. this is one of probably several species growing in the Endon area. I need to photograph and ID these.
Portulaceae - Purslane family
Pink Purslane Clatonia sibirica is an introduced species (from N. America) I brought in to grow as a garden ornamental. I know it from Puddy Lane, Stanley where it grows in damp soils under trees and mixed with Lesser Celandine growing alongside a ditch in Stanley Moss and the stream under Station Rd. It has probably escaped from nearby gardens. Flowers April to July.
Primulacaea the Primrose family.
Though this looks like a "wild" Primrose Primula vulgaris growing in a hedge bank by the recently created footpath by the cricket club I think it may have been planted (it is the only one and there are also clumps of Snowdrops nearby). Also found growing under the Hawthorn hedge alongside the Caldon Canal towards Denford. Flowers April- May.
Dotted Loosestrife Lysimachia punctate is an introduced plant originating from SE Europe. This clump look like they are the result of garden waste being dumped on the disused railway line near Station Road. I know of no others in the area. Flowers July to October.
Yellow Pimpernel Lysimachia nemorum is an ancient woodland indicator which, in the Endon area, grows under the species-rich hedgerow along Holehouse Lane, Endon. The lane appears to be an ancient lane/holloway, hence I suspect these plants are remnants of a woodland that once stood in this area. Flowers May to September.
There are a few clumps of Yellow Loosestrife Lysimachia vulgaris growing amongst the reed fringe along the Caldon Canal between Endon and Stockton Brook. Flowers July and August.
Rosaceae - the Roses and Allies.
Bramble Rubus fruticosus is very common in local hedgerows. The flowers are a good source of pollen and nectar for insects and the fruit and seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals. Flowers May to September.
Raspberry Rubus idaeus is relatively common alongside hedges and along the disused railway line. It flowers between June and August when it provides a useful source of pollen and nectar for insects. Its fruits and seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals.
There are a few plants of Creeping Cinquefoil Potentilla erecta growing amongst the ballast on the disused railway. I know of no other sites for this species in the Endon area, perhaps it is one of the species that has been distributed as a result of the historical transport of quarried material along that route; or alternatively it is a native of the area and has been eliminated from local pastures by means of intensive agriculture. Flowers June to September.
This is Silverweed Potentilla anserine growing along the Caldon Canal towpath. I know of no other places where this species grows in Endon. Flowers between June and August - when the strimmers don't get it!
As with the Creeping Cinquefoil (above) Salad Burnet Sanguisorba minor, a calcicole, probably originated as a result of being transported along the disused railway line along with quarried material (sand and limestone). It has found a suitable (limey substrate in the railway ballast). Flowers May to August.
This photo of Wood Avens Geum urbanum was taken in my garden where this species has established itself, presumably, from seeds from mud off my walking boots. I do not know it from Endon itself, however it grows in Deep Hayes Country Park and the planted woodland near Stanley Head, two of my regular walking places. Flowers May to August.
Field Rose Rosa arvensis grows in the plantation woodland at Sanley Head, and perhaps in local hedgerows. This species can be an ancient woodland indicator, though in this (obvious) woodland creation scheme site it clearly is not. I suspect it was included along with the rest of the planting on this site. Flowers June to July.
Dog Rose Rosa canina is common in local hedgerows. I have several Dog rose plants in my garden that have arisen from seed dropped by birds. This one was photographed along the disused railway line. The flowers are a valuable source of nectar and pollen for insects and the seeds (hips) are eaten by birds such as Bullfinch. Flowers June to July.
Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria grows amongst the reed fringe vegetation of the Caldon Canal. Flowers between June and September and smells glorious!
Members of the Buttercup (Ranunculaceae) family found growing in the wild in Endon in 2013.
There are six members of the Buttercup family growing in and around Endon, plus a seventh (Greater Spearwort) which, so far I have only found in Deep Hayes Country Park. they are all pictured below.
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The earliest flowering buttercup is the Lesser Celandine Ficaria verna found growing in many places, such as hedgebanks and along the disused railway, in and around Endon. These are growing along the Caldon Canal between Endon and Stockton Brook. .JPG)   
Meadow Buttercup Ranunculus acris is not as common as Creeping Buttercup, but there is still plenty about in Endon. this one was photographed in my garden "meadow" which was created from damp grassland. Many of the local fields are also relatively damp (due to there position at the bottom of a valley and rather heavy and easily compacted soils) perhaps this is why I have seen them growing in local silage fields. They flower between May and August.
I first found this species, Lesser Spearwort Ranunculus flammula, growing in my garden pond, which was created by deepening an already wet low point in a former pasture. It is a common plant of damp and wet places, so I expect it grows in other similar situations in Endon, though I have yet to find these.
Greater Spearwort Ranunculus lingua is a native species though "widely introduced" according to Harrap, S. (2013) Harrap's Wild Flowers Bloomsbury Publishing. Whether this plant is a native or not I have not established. It is growing in the pond by the bird hide in Deep Hayes Country Park
Saxifragaceae - the Saxifrage family.
Opposite-leaved Golden Saxifrage Chrysosplenium alternifolium grows alongside the stream/ditch beside the planted woodland by Stanley Head and also beside the canalised stream that runs alongside the disused railway line and then under Station Road. Flowers February to June.
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Members of Poppy family (Papaveraceae) found growing in Endon in 2013.
In 2013 I found three species of Papaveraceae growing in the wild in Endon, the yellow Welsh Poppy, the red Common Poppy and Climbing Corydalis.
All three of these species are opportunist plants, whose seeds can quickly take advantage of bare ground should any become available where the seeds fall.
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| Welsh Poppy Mecanopsis cambria is not a native of England (though is of Wales - hence the name). However it is used as a garden plant grown from seeds of European origin, the seeds clearly escape the garden have become naturalised near human settlements such as Endon. This one was photographed at the base of a garden wall in Brook Lane, Endon. I have seen others growing in similar circumstances throughout the village, but never far from the garden habitat. |
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Common Poppy Papaver rhoeas seen growing on heap of builder's spoil at Greenway Hall Golf Club. The club had extensive construction work carried out at their site throughout the year. This is the only place I have seen this species growing in the vicinity of Endon so far. The seeds of these plants, which is a ruderal and annual species, may have been brought in along with the constructor's materials.  This Climbing Corydalis Ceratocapnos claviculata was found growing on a public footpath adjacent to Greenway Hall Golf Club. The footpath is on sandy soil under the woodland fringe of the golf course. It is a native species which, so far, I have only fond growing in this isolated patch. |
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| Slender Speedwell Veronica filiformis grows at the hedge base on Caldon Canal towpath. This is the only place where I have, thus far, found this species in the Endon area. It was introduced as a garden plant (from Turkey and the Caucasus) that has "escaped" into the wild. In Britain it is common in short-grassy places. Perhaps it occurs as a "weed" in local gardens? Will this patch survive the upcoming works to convert the canal towpath in to a cycle route? Flowers all year round. |
Germander Speedwell V. chamaedrys grows along Caldon Canal towpath, the disused railway line and probably other disturbed sites around Endon. Flowers March to July.
Thyme-leaved Speedwell V. serpyllifolia is a "weed" of disturbed ground which grows in my garden, and I assume, others in Endon and surrounds.
Green Field Speedwell V. agrestis is another "weed" of disturbed ground which grows in my garden, and I assume others in the Endon area. Flowers April to November.
Grey Field Speedwell V. polita is another "weed" of disturbed ground found in my garden and I assume others in the area. Flowers April to November.
Brooklime V. beccabunga is a plant of open, damp ground. I first found it in wet depression/pond in my vegetable plot and has spread to other areas of the garden since. It may well occur in other similar locations in the Endon area, though I have yet to find it. Also found in Deep Hayes Country Park. Flowers May to September.
Ivy-Leaved Speedwell V. hederifolia grows amongst ballast on disused railway near Endon Station. I have not yet seen it growing anywhere else in our area. Flowers April to May.
Wall Speedwell Veronica arvensis grows by the old platform beside the disused railway line, and probably as a garden weed. The recent (about 2011) clearance of vegetation from the line at this spot has allowed this ruderal species to colonise the track for a few years. presumably it will disappear once it becomes shaded out as the vegetation grows back. Flowers March to October.
Figwort Scrophularia nodosa grows along the disused railway line in Endon. This species can be an Ancient Woodland Indicator but is increasingly found growing on waste ground, such as the railway line. It provides a useful source of nectar for long-tongued insects and is used as a food plant of the Figwort Saw fly. These larvae (below) were photographed on a Figwort plant I introduced in to my garden. Flowers June to Sept.
Probably a Figwort Sawfly larva on Figwort.
Foxgloves Digitalis purpurea grow on disturbed ground, some hedge bottoms, woodlands etc. in the Endon area. Flowers June to August. Attractive as a source of nectar and pollen to bumble bees and other insects.
Ivy-leaved toadflax - Cymbalaria muralis growing on garden wall in Brook Lane, Endon, which is this plant's typical habitat. in the days before people built walls rocks would have been the natural situation for this species. It is also found on other local walls in "The Village" area. Flowers may to September.
Another species of walls and rocky places is Pale Toadflax Linaria repens here photographed growing on stone garden wall in Brook Lane Endon. Pale Toadflax is typically a species of dry, calcareous places. Did these plants come in to Endon (naturally a sandstone area) on railway ballast or with other limestone chippings? Flowers June to September.
This plant Common Toadflax Linaria vulgaris is a well-documented "railway plant". This patch was photographed growing along the disused railway. They are not known to grow in any other situation in the Endon area. Flowers July to October.
Small Toadflax Chaenorhinum minus also grows along the disused railway, though you have to look hard for it as it is very small. This one was photographed growing in my garden where I encourage the small population of plants that have self-seeded in my garden. Flowers May to October.
Red Bartsia Odontites vernus is another well documented member of the "railway vegetation". this one was photographed growing along the disused railway in 2011, before the Churnet Valley Railway volunteers applied weedkiller to the track. Flowers June to September.
Yellow Rattle Rhinanthus minor also grows along the railway line, though I have only ever found a small patch. This ones were photographed in my garden plot where I have managed to establish Yellow Rattle in my wild flower meadow. Flowers may to August.
Lamiacaea - Dead Nettle family
White Dead Nettle Lamium album grows at hedge bottoms and in other grassy places in and around Endon. this one was photographed on the Canal and Rivers trust dumping ground near the shower block in Park Lane. Flowers May to December.
Red Dead Nettle Lamium purpureum is a "weed" in my garden, and presumably others in the Endon area. A good source of nectar for early flying, long-tongued, insects. Flowers April to October.
Marsh Woundwort Stachys palustris grows amongst the reed-swamp vegetation along the Caldon Canal. Flowers July to September
Hedge Woundwort Stachys sylvatica grows amongst other tallish herbs amongst vegetation in hedge bottoms, along the disused railway etc. Flowers July to September.
Gypsywort Lycopus europaeus grows alongside the Caldon Canal amongst the reed-swamp vegetation. Hopefully the upcoming upgrade of the canal towpath in to a cycle path will not eliminate this species. Flowers June to September.
Common Hemp Nettle Galeopsis terahit grows along the disused railway, in open plantation woodland near Stanley Head and probably other places in the Endon area. Flowers July to September. PHOTO NEEDED.
Betony Stachys officionalis grows in the grazed meadows in Deep Hayes Country Park (a 45 min. walk from Endon along disused railway or canal towpath). To see it in flower go between June and September.
Bittersweet or Woody Nightshade Solanum dulcamara self-seeds, presumably form bird droppings, and grows in some local hedgerows and along the disused railway line. Flowers May to September.
Plantaginaceae the Plantain Family.
Greater Plantain Plantago major is one of the two plantains that grown in the Endon area. Greater Plantain grows along the railway line, canal towpath and silage/pasture fields. Flowers June to October.
Ribwort Plantain Plantago lanceolata also grows along the disused railway line, canal towpath and in silage/pasture fields. Flowers April to October. PHOTO NEEDED
Rubiaceae - bedstraw family.
Gallium aparine or Goosegrass/Cleavers is of course very common around Endon. In this photo it is growing at the base of a wall, however it can also be seen at the base of hedges, as a garden weed and on wastelands such as the disused railway.
I fist spotted Marsh Bedstraw Gallium palustre growing at the edge of my wildlife pond in my garden plot. I expect it rows in other similar wet places ditches in the Endon area. I have also seen it amongst the tall vegetation fringing the Caldon canal. It flowers between June to August.
Woodruff Gallium odoratum is an ancient woodland indicator. It is growing under a Beech hedge bordering a garden in Brookside Drive, which is surrounded by other houses. I doubt that in this instance this plant provides evidence of an ancient woodland. I suspect this patch has expanded from its planting site. So, strictly speaking (or writing) it is a garden escape. However, unlike some other garden escapes shown in this blog it is not a non-native flower gone "wild", it is a native species that has been cultivated and spread out so that is visible to the public view. Woodruff flowers in early summer, May to June.
Urticaceae - Nettle Family
Common Nettle Urtica dioeca is ubiquitous in the Endon area, it can be found growing on wasteground, in damp woody places, as a garden weed and here along the Caldon Canal towpath. Flowers May to September.
Valerianacaea the Valerian Family
This clump of Red Valerian Centranthus rubra is growing in my garden, however it was grown from seed that I collected from plants growing on the outer side of local walls where it has "escaped" from the garden environment. I know of no other sites for this species which was introduced from its native S. Europe in the 18th century, although it is commonly found as a wildflower in coastal districts of the British Isles. Flowers May to August.
Unlike its relative Red Valerian (pictured above) Common Valerian Valeriana officinalis is a native species, which grows in damp soils. Here it is growing in a ditch along the disused railway line in Endon. I assume it has colonised this previously developed land from the Caldon Canal towpath, where it also grows amongst the reed fringe vegetation. Flowers July to August.
Lythraceae - The Purple Loosestrife Family.
Purple Loosestrife Lythrum salicaria on Caldon Canal between Endon and Stockton Brook. This species appeared in 2014 and arrived as plug plants embedded into the coir rolls that have been used to reinforced the canal sides as part of the works to convert the canal towpath in to a cycle path.
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