It has been lovely to see more colour shining through the gloom. Winter aconites (Eranthis hyemalis) are in full bloom now.
These Winter aconites should be flowering now unlike a Flowering Quince (Chaenomeles speciosa) that I noticed.
Clearly this shrub rather optimistically thinks it’s Spring. I guess it’s sheltered sunny position is helping to contribute along with the slightly milder weather we have been experiencing lately. Hopefully a few bees will find the flowers.
One more thing I noticed last week was some Oakmoss, (Evernia prunastri) that had fallen onto the lawn.
Confusingly, given its name, it is a Lichen and not a moss. Also, while usually found on Oak (Quercus) trees, it can be found on other species of tree too, like conifers (Pinophyta). There was a conifer nearby so it most likely originated from there. The resin from that tree will have been absorbed by the lichen and therefore shares the same turpentine quality as the tree.
This Lichen has been used in the perfume industry (for its earthy aroma), in cooking and as a dye. I wasn’t feeling adventurous so rather than take it I moved it to the nearby conifer. Lichen grows very slowly, hopefully it will survive for even longer.
Bee in the Moment 