This is Toothwort. It's a perennial that is parasitic on the roots of woody shrubs (mostly Hazel). It's a bit weird, but very beautiful.
This is Early Purple Orchid. It'll have a tall spike of 'orchidy' purple flowers soon, well, if the deer stop munching them.
This is a cramp ball or King Alfreds Cakes they grow on Ash trees. They are around all year but this one was looking really tortoiseee and I couldn't resist it!
When they are mature they go dry, black and when you break them open the inside looks like a piece of charcoal. When they are like this I collect them, break one open and use it to catch a spark from a flint and steel. It holds the spark for ages and I then put some tinder on it give it a blow and start a fire. It's possibly one of the best things ever!!
hi, I've just discovered your wonderful blog from your CL link. How lucky you are to have your own woodland. the early purple orchids are bloomed here already.
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