There is a large area of grass growing at the side of the University Collections Facility (née Library Annexe) which is usually just grass and moss with the odd daisy daring to poke its head above the grassy parapets. However, a lunchtime stroll resulted in a delightful find of a Common Spotted Orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii) growing amongst the buttercups (Ranunculus acris) and grasses at South Gyle.

Brown honey bees looked conspicuous busily collecting nectar from the white clover (Trifolium repens) which is in full flower. The tiny purple flowers of selfheal (Prunella vulgaris) looked especially lovely as a complementary colour to the shining yellow buttercups. A daisy (Bellis perennis) or two is also flowering. A few thistles (Cirsium vulgare) are nearly flowering and small sheep sorrel plants (Rumex acetosella) are appearing. The type of grassland here (neutral to alkaline) is typical of one which has not had chemicals or artificial fertilisers put on it and is typical of how grassland looked before ploughing and fertilising became common practices.

Sandi Phillips, Collections Management Assistant