Gorse

Name: Gorse

Scientific name: Ulex europaeus

Category: Trees and bushes

Nature Stars: 60

What are nature stars?

About: A large spiny shrub, found on heathland, grassland, moorland and coastal areas.

How to identify: There are three species of gorse in the UK, which are all very similar. A spiny shrub covered in needle-like leaves. Flowers yellow.

Where: Widespread.

Fantastic fact: Gorse flowers smell of coconut.

Photograph credit: Philip Precey