Rare Pembrokeshire species gets habitat boost

A declining heathland plant species has had its habitat rejuvenated thanks to a recent stint of conservation volunteering by students working towards Duke of Edinburgh awards.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority Ranger, Tim Jones, worked with nine students from across the county in Manorbier over a recent weekend.

Ranger Jones said: “The students were working to improve the habitat for the purple broomrape flower, which grows on a National Park site, its only currently known location in Wales.

“Broomrape has no chlorophyll, and is totally dependent on other plants for nutrients. Essentially we need to improve conditions for the host plant for this little bluish-violet parasitic flower to feed from, which is the yarrow.

“In the right conditions, broomrape is capable of prolific seed production. With the right climate conditions and grassland management we hope to maintain this species in Pembrokeshire with the assistance of groups like Duke of Edinburgh students coming along to help and learn about the importance of maintaining diversity in plant species.”

Contact janetoto@pembrokeshirecoast.org.uk.