Ragged-Robin | Reserves and species

Scientific Name:

Lychnis flos-cuculi

Swaying in a gentle breeze, the delicate pink flowers of Ragged-Robin can be a joy to behold in any wildflower meadow, damp pasture or woodland ride. But it's not just passing humans that benefit from its star-shaped flowers, bumblebees, butterflies and Honey Bees all enjoy the nectar it produces. A growing favourite among gardeners, try planting Ragged-Robin in a boggy area or flower border and see who comes to visit...

How to identify:

Ragged-Robin is a perennial that is likely to be growing in wetter areas such as marshes, fens and wet meadows. It has much-divided, pink flowers (hence the name 'Ragged') and narrow, grass-like leaves.

Where to find it:

Grows almost everywhere in the UK, but especially in damp and wet places.

How people can help:

The pink, frayed flowers of Ragged-Robin are an increasingly rare sight in the wild. Human activity, including the drainage of land for agriculture, the loss of ponds through development and the removal of wet woods, has resulted in the disappearance of many of the UK's wetlands. The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with planners, developers and farmers to ensure our wetlands are protected. You can help by becoming a member of your local Trust; you'll find out about exciting wildlife happenings, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities, and be helping local wildlife along the way.

Statistics:

Height: up to 75cm

Conservation status:

Declining.

Did you know?:

Perhaps you don't know what to do with a waterlogged area of your garden, or you fancy extending the borders of your pond to make it more wildlife-friendly? If this is the case, a bog garden could be the ideal answer. Moisture-loving plants, such as Ragged-Robin, will thrive here, attracting dragonflies, bees and butterflies, which, in turn, bring frogs, toads and other animals. To find out more visit our Wild About Gardens website.

Seasons:

Spring

Summer

When to see

Start date:

May

End date:

August

Image: