Lobelia urens
#SavingSpecialSpecies Projects
Once known locally as ‘the flower of the Axe’, Heath Lobelia is an incredibly rare wildflower that was first discovered in 1768 growing on heathland near Shute in East Devon.
The striking purple-blue flower could once be found growing over a widespread area known as Kilmington Common; described in Rev Zachary Edward’s 1862 book, ‘Ferns of the Axe’, as growing ‘in a mile stretch, 100 yards wide’.
Today, the heath lobelia has almost disappeared from East Devon. Only one small ‘community’ of around 80 plants remains here, growing in a private garden.
Belonging to the Campanulaceae family, the Heath Lobelia has a striking blue flower, that emerges from July to September.
Why are they in trouble?
Over time, the plant’s ideal growing conditions of open heathland and disturbed ground, such as where livestock graze, have been replaced by woodland and this has led to its demise.
Tree planting on Kilmington common intensified from the 19th century onwards – started by Sir William Templer Pole, who planted 896,000 trees on the historic Shute Estate, including Shute Hill.
More recently, significant conifer planting took place from the 1950s onwards.
native sites in the UK
How will we help this special species?
Our heath lobelia conservation work will focus on doing everything we can to ensure the long-term survival of this very rare plant in east Devon.
Working with landowners, we will promote the safeguarding of the existing heath lobelia population and seek out new sites for planting in the Shute and Kilmington area, where it is known to have once grown extensively.
With help and expertise from volunteers, we’ll collect seed, cultivate new plants, carry out habitat management and monitor the progress of new planting sites.
We will promote the reintroduction scheme to the wider community, raising the profile and increasing support for this special native wildflower.
LATEST NEWS
Rivers Run Through Us
A New Nature Recovery Project for the River Axe Catchment We’re excited to announce that Rivers Run Through Us, a new project aimed at improving the health of the River Axe and its catchment, has been given the green light. Thanks to a grant of over £250,000 from The...
Project contact
For further information on our species recovery project,
contact the:
East Devon National Landscape Team
PROJECT FUNDING
More to Explore
Our National Landscape Projects
We lead, partner and support projects that focus on a wide range of themes, including landscape and heritage, environmental quality and climate, biodiversity, recreation and tourism.
Outdoors & Active
Whether you prefer walking, cycling, running or playing, everyone feels happier and healthier when they spend time in nature being more active.
East Devon Way
Discover the hidden gems of East Devon and explore this much loved walking route that links 40 miles of public footpaths, trails and bridleways.