Wild Cabbages and Carrots Study Day- Tyland Barn

Although Wild Cabbage (Crucifers or Brassicaceae) and Wild Carrot (Umbels or Apiaceae) are unmistakable families, distinguishing between their many look-alike species is notoriously difficult. Both families are in evidence throughout the year as different species follow each other, so we shall be able to study only a fraction of the species. However, skills learnt here should give you confidence to tackle others on your own.

This study day is suitable for beginners who however knowledgeable about flowers in general, struggle when attempting to identify members these two families.

At least half the morning will be spent in the classroom getting to grips with the basic features (in particular of the fruits) of these two families - features that are crucial for accurate identification. There will be a variety of specimens available for practice. The rest of the day will be spent outdoors, in the vicinity, tackling the ID of especially those species that are flowering/fruiting at the time.

By the end of this study day it is expected that participants will feel able to:

tackle the identification of any member of these families with enthusiasm and optimism
use scientific keys with confident understanding of the terminology
Led by Ros Bennett, Botanist and ecologist

Suitable for beginners who know the basic structure and purpose of flowers

Photo: Carrot (Wild) Howard Blackie