MYRICACEAE FAGACEAE - National Botanic Gardens

` FLORA OF COUNTY WATERFORD 71
MYRICACEAE
Myrica gale L. Bog-myrtle
Native. Marshes, bogs, fens and reedbeds. Surprisingly rare. All records are: the Clonea area
(X39, 1899, R.L. Praeger); patch in bog and several bushes in damp field, both on east side of
Annestown Stream and a number of bushes on west side of Annestown Stream, between
Annestown and Dunhill Castle (X5099 and S5000, 1963, I.K. Ferguson – 2006, PRG and M.J.
Stribley); marsh west of Tramore (S5503, 1967, I.K. Ferguson); amongst Common Reed on the
west side of Belle Lake (S6604 and S6605, 1999, PRG); abundant in field on west side of the
R675, Coolgower (S6006, 2001, PRG) and eight bushes in heathy area by road, Killineen West
(X2999, PRG, 2003).
FAGACEAE
Fagus sylvatica L. Beech
Woods, hedges, walls, wooded river
and stream banks. Beech is not
thought to be native to Ireland. Date of
introduction not known, but possibly
brought in by the Normans. Absent
from most of the coast and mountain
ranges except for sheltered valleys.
Even though most records are
probably of planted trees, it is often
found self-sown.
First record: self-sown in wild
ground, Co. Waterford, A contribution
to the flora of Ireland (Praeger, 1934).
2
1
0
9
8
9
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Fagus sylvatica var. cuprea Copper Beech
There are only three records, all of single self-sown trees: conifer plantation at Coolfinn
(S4715, 2002, I.P. Green); steep bank between river and road, Colligan Beg (X2298, 2002, I.P.
Green); wooded road bank of the River Blackwater, Rincrew (X0981, 2007, PRG).
Nothofagus alpina (Poepp. & Endl.) Oerst. Rauli
Rauli has been planted around the edges of two conifer plantations in the county. These trees
are now mature and have produced offspring: side of track on Tower Hill, Portlaw (S4418,
2001, I.P. Green) and edge of moorland on roadside, Reanaviddoge (X2288, 2003, PRG).
Castanea sativa Mill. Sweet Chestnut
Woods, hedges, and the edge of
2
conifer plantations. Most records are
probably of planted trees, but I have
1
occasionally seen Sweet Chestnut selfsown
in woods.
0
R S
First record: Lismore, X09P, 1950s,
WX
C. Longfield.
9
8
9
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
0
1

72 Paul Green
Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl. Sessile Oak
Native. Sessile Oak is often the
dominant tree in the few deciduous
woodlands left in the county. It is also
found along wooded river and stream
banks and occasionally around the
edge of conifer plantations that were
once mixed woodland. Rarely found in
hedges.
First record: Lismore, X09P, 1950s,
C. Longfield. It is surprising that I
have not been able to trace any records
before then.
Quercus x rosacea Bechst.
2
1
0
9
8
9
0
1
2
1
0
9
8
9
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Native. Quercus x rosacea is the
hybrid between Sessile and
Pedunculate Oak. Found in mixed
woodland and wooded river and
stream banks. As some forms of the
hybrid closely resemble Pedunculate
Oak, it is probably more frequent than
the map suggests.
First record: S21 and S41, after 1950,
New Atlas.
Quercus robur L. Pedunculate Oak
Native. Often found in hedges, also
2
woods and wooded stream and river
banks and coastal scrub and very
1
occasionally on rock ledges in the
coums of the Comeragh Mountains.
First record: Mine Head, X28, 1882, 0
H.C. Hart.
9
8
9
Quercus rubra L. Red Oak
Probably planted in all cases but not always easy to tell. All records are associated with conifer
plantations where it is often planted around the boundary and along the edge of the rides. All
records of planted trees: amongst trees on edge of Ballyshonock Reservoir (S4509); edge of
plantation, Dalligan Bridge (X3098); edge of plantation, Knockadullaun (R9704); Rock Wood,
Cappagh (X1896) – all 1997, G.A. Crouch and PRG and edge of plantation, Mocollop
0
0
1
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7

` FLORA OF COUNTY WATERFORD 73
(W9399, 2003, PRG). Possibly self-sown: north edge of plantation along roadside,
Curraheenavoher Hill (S1817); one tree in plantation, Lacken (X2796) and single tree on side
of ride in plantation, Landscape (S2922) – all 2002, I.P. Green.
Quercus cerris L. Turkey Oak
2
1
0
9
8
Turkey Oak can be found regenerating
in woods, on road banks, in hedges, on
a road verge at the base of a wall, on a
wall and on wooded rocky areas on the
coast west of Cheekpoint. Also found
as a planted tree in woods, on hedge
banks and as a specimen tree in fields.
Turkey Oak can sporadically be semideciduous,
holding its leaves
throughout winter. There are only
three records prior to 1997.
First record: As a planted tree, S30
and S51, after 1950, New Atlas. As self-sown trees, regenerating in wooded valley at Newtown
Cove, Newtown (X5699, 1964, I.K. Ferguson – 2003,WFS field meeting).
Quercus ilex L. Evergreen Oak
A rare tree in the wild in Ireland. In
the far east of the county Evergreen
Oak can be found established in rocky
woodland and wooded river banks and
very occasionally self-sown on walls
around People’s Park, Waterford
(S6111, 2002, D. McGrath). Away
from this part of the county it is a
planted tree.
First record: regenerating in rocky
coastal woodland on the north side of
Knockavelish Head, S6904, 1997,
G.A. Crouch and PRG.
BETULACEAE
Betula pendula Roth Silver Birch
2
1
0
9
8
9
9
R S
WX
0
R S
WX
0
1
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
2
1
0
9
8
9
R S
WX
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Native? Woods, conifer plantations,
hedges, wooded river and stream
banks. Surprisingly rare and often just
a single tree is seen. Some recorded
trees may have been planted and there
is a possibility that Silver Birch is not
native to the county as it is so rare.
First record: Lismore, X09P, 1950s,
C. Longfield. The New Atlas also has
records for S20 and S30 for after 1950.

74 Paul Green
Betula pubescens Ehrh. Downy Birch
Native. Woods, conifer plantations,
hedges, wooded river and stream
banks, walls and the edge of marshes.
Absent from majority of the coast and
much of the heather moorland in the
mountain ranges. Often planted around
the margins of conifer plantations.
First record: listed in Irish
Topographical Botany (Praeger,
1901).
Alnus incana (L.) Moench Grey Alder
A rare escape in Ireland. I have only found Grey Alder twice in the county: self-sown trees in
the marsh and reedbed on the west shore of Belle Lake (S6604, 1999) and a single tree selfsown
on waste ground at Knocklucas (S2121, 2004), parent trees in nearby garden.
Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn. Alder
2
1
0
9
8
9
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
2
1
0
9
8
9
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Native. Most common along banks of
rivers and streams, also damp
woodland, hedges, edges of marshes,
walls by rivers and the margins of
ponds, loughs and lakes. In the
mountain ranges only found in the
wooded river valleys. Alder is now
being used for mass planting instead of
conifers on many of the marshes and
bogs in the county.
First record: west of Clonmel, S11 or
S12, 1897, R.L. Praeger.
Alnus cordata (Loisel.) Duby Italian Alder
A rare escape in Ireland. The only Co. Waterford record is of a single self-sown tree on
Kilmolash Bridge (X1394, 2004, A.C. Leslie), parent trees in neighbouring garden.
Alnus rubra Bong Red Alder
In Ireland rare and always planted expect for the following which is the first Irish record of a
self-sown Red Alder: a single tree in damp grassland near the shore of Kilmaloo Lough
(X1281, 2002, I.P. Green), parent trees planted nearby.
Carpinus betulus L. Hornbeam
The only records of self-sown trees are from woodland on the north side of Knockavelish Head
(S6904, 1997, G.A. Crouch and PRG); wooded area on the north side of the River Blackwater,
Carrigane (W9299, 2003, PRG) and wooded road bank, Mocollop (W9399, 2006, BSBI field
meeting). All other records I suspect to have been planted: mixed woodland, Faithlegg (S6713,
1997, G.A. Crouch and PRG); edge of conifer plantation, Villierstown (X1093, 2000, PRG and
0
1

` FLORA OF COUNTY WATERFORD 75
M.L. Stephens); woodland along right bank of the River Blackwater, Rincrew (X08V, 2001,
I.P. Green); woodland, Curraghmore (S4315 and S4415, 2002, PRG); roadside hedge,
Aughmore (S3318, 2003, PRG); roadside hedges, Snugborough (X0692, 2003 and X0592,
2004, PRG); two trees in roadside hedge, Killineen West (X2999, 2004, PRG).
Corylus avellana L. Hazel
Native. Woods, hedges, wooded
stream and river banks, rock faces, and
disused railways. A common species
of many of the wooded valleys.
Absent from most of the high ground
of the mountain ranges, can be found
growing in rock crevices in a couple of
the coums. Confined to wooded river
valleys on the coast.
First record: Co. Waterford, 1878, J.
Neale.
AIZOACEAE
Carpobrotus edulis (L.) N.E. Br. Hottentot-fig
A rare garden escape or discard. Patch on top of sea-cliffs, Ardoginna (X1677, 2004, PRG and
J.C. Wallace); top of beach, Dungarvan (X2793, 2004, PRG), this patch disappeared during the
following winter. I have not seen plants at either of these sites flowering.
Carpobrotus edulis var. rubescens Druce
There is only one site of this variety of Hottentot-fig with pinkish-purple petals: large patch on
top of the cliffs over-looking Garrarus Cove (X5498, 1993, E. Fitzgerald – 2004, PRG).
CHENOPODIACEAE
Chenopodium vulvaria L. Stinking Goosefoot
Extinct. The only record is from Tramore (S50, before 1866, S. Madden). Strangely the New
Atlas lists no records for Ireland.
Chenopodium rubrum L. Red Goosefoot
2
1
0
9
8
9
0
G.A. Crouch and PRG.
1
2
1
0
9
8
9
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Native. Dried-up margins of loughs,
reservoirs and riverbeds, manure
heaps, areas poached by cattle in damp
fields, cultivated and waste ground. A
species that has increased greatly in
Ireland since the 1962 Atlas. Around
the receding margins of reservoirs and
loughs the plants are small, as they do
not have the chance to grow until well
into the summer.
First record: on heaps of soil by car
park, Clonea Lower, X3194, 1997,

76 Paul Green
Chenopodium ficifolium Sm. Fig-leaved Goosefoot
Roadsides, waste and cultivated
ground and rubbish tips. Many of the
records have been made from maize
and sugar beet fields. The only record
before 2000 besides W.W.
Newbould’s record is of three plants
on the roadside of Ballyshonock
Bridge (S4509, 1997, G.A. Crouch
and PRG – still there 2000, I.P. and
P.R. Green).
First record: believed to have been
seen near Waterford before 1866 by
W.W. Newbould.
2
1
0
9
8
9
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Chenopodium bonus-henricus L. Good-King-Henry
The only records for this garden herb are: three miles west of Cappoquin from a place called
Modeshel (S00 or X09, 1905, E.H. Bowers, DBN) and a single clump on the roadside of
junction of Lombard’s Cross Roads (X0781, 2005, PRG and M.L. Stephens).
Chenopodium album L. Fat-hen
Native. Roadsides, disturbed areas,
2
rubbish tips, manure heaps, beaches,
waste and cultivated ground. Often
1
forming large stands on waste ground
and on the side of newly constructed
0
roads.
First record: Dunmore East, S60,
9
1897, R.L. Praeger.
8
9
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
Atriplex prostrata Boucher ex DC.
Native. Roadsides, disturbed areas,
2
rubbish tips, manure heaps, beaches,
Spear-leaved Orache
saltmarshes, waste and cultivated
ground. A species that seems to be on
the increase.
1
First record: recorded as growing in
Co. Waterford, Contributions towards
0
a Cybele Hibernica (Moore and More, 9
1866).
Key:
R S
WX
2 3
4 5
6 7
8
9
0
0
1
1
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7

` FLORA OF COUNTY WATERFORD 77
Atriplex glabriuscula Edmondston Babington’s Orache
2
1
0
9
8
9
1901).
R S
WX
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Native. A species found at the top of
beaches, base of sea-cliffs and around
the margins of saltmarshes.
Babington’s Orache can be found
inland a short way along tidal rivers.
[The New Atlas has records for S30
and S40, which are inland squares.
These are likely to be errors made
when converting the old Irish grid to
that used today.]
First record: listed in Irish
Topographical Botany (Praeger,
Atriplex x taschereaui Stace Taschereau’s Orache
Native. Taschereau’s Orache is a hybrid between Babington’s and Long-stalked Orache. I have
not seen it growing with either parent in the county. Plentiful just above the high tide line of
the River Suir at Ballynakill (S6311, 2002, I.P. and P.R. Green and D. McGrath – 2003, conf.
J.R. Akeroyd) and little on the River Suir at Faithlegg (S6612, 2003, PRG). Also found in
abundance on either side of the tidal stretch of the Ballycanvan Stream (S6509, S6609 and
S6510, 2002, I.P. and P.R. Green and D. McGrath).
Atriplex longipes Drejer Long-stalked Orache
Native. Not known from Ireland until three plants were found on the margin of a brackish pond
on Little Island (S6511, 2001, PRG – conf. J.R. Akeroyd, DBN – 2003, T. Curtis). There is an
unconfirmed record from a saltmarsh on the banks of the River Suir opposite Little Island
(S6311, 1990, R.N. Goodwillie). A search there in 2002 by D. McGrath, I.P. Green and myself
failed in finding any Long-stalked Orache.
Atriplex patula L. Common Orache
Native. Roadsides, disturbed areas,
2
rubbish tips, manure heaps, beaches,
upper parts of saltmarshes, waste and
1
cultivated ground. Often growing with
Spear-leaved Orache. Absent from the
mountain ranges.
0
First record: waste ground, Waterford,
S51 or S61, 1899, R.L. Praeger, DBN.
9
8
9
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Atriplex littoralis L. Grass-leaved Orache
Native. A rare species on the Irish coast. All county records are: Dunmore East (S6800, 1971,
H.J. Killick); single plant on edge of saltmarsh, Tramore (S5901, 1997, G.A. Crouch and
PRG); scattered plants on edge of saltmarsh and along north side of Tramore Burrow (S6000
0
1

78 Paul Green
and S6100, 2003, PRG and J.C. Wallace); waste area, Black Knob, Dunmore East (X6999,
1998, PRG – 2004, M. O’Conor).
Atriplex laciniata L. Frosted Orache
Native. Frosted Orache can be found at
2
the top of sand and shingle beaches, in
one sandy churchyard on the coast and
1
occasionally on the drift-line of
0
R S
saltmarshes. Populations are often
small and very sporadic in occurrence.
WX
First record: S50, 1962 Atlas.
9
8
9
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Atriplex portulacoides L. Sea-purslane
Native. Saltmarshes, sea-cliffs, banks
of tidal rivers, walls on the coast and
very rarely roadsides by the sea.
Forming large stands on saltmarshes
where it is often submerged by high
tides. The only place Sea-purslane is
found along the River Suir is a small
saltmarsh at Gracedieu (S5714, 2002,
PRG).
First record: Tramore, S50 or S60,
Flora Hibernica (Mackay, 1836).
2
1
0
9
8
9
R S
WX
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Beta vulgaris subsp. maritima (L.) Arcang. Sea Beet
Native. Saltmarshes, sea-cliffs, top of
2
beaches, banks of tidal rivers, walls on
the coast and very rarely roadsides by
1
the sea. Sea Beet can also be found on
waste ground by the coast.
0
R S
First record: Mine Head, X28, 1882,
WX
H.C. Hart.
9
8
9
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris Root Beet
Many forms are grown as root vegetables. All records are of Sugar Beet: many surviving
where dumped on a roadside at Inchinleama West (W9099, 2002); Cappagh Quarry, Cappagh
(X1794, 2003); roadside, Millstreet (S1701, 2004); roadside, Grallagh Upper (X1783, 2005);
0
1

` FLORA OF COUNTY WATERFORD 79
waste ground, Clashmore (X1284, 2005); waste ground, Ballindud (S5908, 2006); road verge,
Ballinaspick (X0496, 2006); newly-sown road verge, Waterford (S5610, 2006); roadside,
Harney’s Cross Roads (S2620, 2006); waste ground, Greenan (S1921, 2007) – all PRG.
Salicornia agg. Glassworts
Native. There are a number of records recorded as just Salicornia agg. Which are not placed
under a species. The only record that is from a tetrad where no species have been named is
from Bunmahon (X4398, 1954, D.A. Webb, LCR), searches by myself in 2005 failed to find
any Glassworts. Very little saltmarsh now remains at Bunmahon.
Salicornia pusilla Woods One-flowered Glasswort
Native. The uppermost parts of saltmarshes. Common around the Back Strand, Tramore (S50,
1954, T.G. Tutin, LTR – S5901, S5902, S6000, S6002, S6102, S6201 and S6202, 2003, PRG);
west side of Cunnigar (X2790 and X2691, 1961, I.K. Ferguson – 1997, G.A. Crouch and PRG)
and Kinsalebeg (X1279, 1962, I.K. Ferguson).
Salicornia ramosissima Woods
Native. The middle and upper zones of
Purple Glasswort
saltmarshes and saltpans, often
2
forming large stands.
First record: Tramore, S50, 1933, R.L.
Praeger, DBN.
1
0
9
8
9
R S
WX
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Salicornia fragilis P.W. Ball & Tutin Yellow Glasswort
Native. Majority of records are from open mud on intertidal flats and very occasionally the
lowest parts of saltmarshes. Around the Back Strand, Tramore (S50 and S60, 1962, I.K.
Ferguson, DBN – S5901, S6000, S6102, S6201 and S6202, 2003, PRG); Dungarvan Harbour
(X29, 1962, I.K. Ferguson, DBN – X2591, X2790 and X2894, 2003, PRG); Kinsalebeg
(X1279, 1962, I.K. Ferguson, DBN – X1179 and X1279, 2003, PRG); Rincrew (X0980, 1997,
G.A. Crouch and PRG) and Pillpark (X1180, 2003, PRG).
Salicornia dolichostachya Moss Long-spiked Glasswort
Native. Majority of records are from open mud on intertidal flats and very occasionally the
lowest parts of saltmarshes. Often growing with Yellow Glasswort. Around Dungarvan
harbour (X29, 1962, I.K. Ferguson, DBN – X2591, X2790 and X2894, 2003, PRG); around the
Back Strand, Tramore (S50, 1998, BSBI field meeting – S5901, S6000, S6102 and S6201,
2003, PRG – det. I.K. Ferguson) and Kinsalebeg (X1179 and X1279, 2003, PRG).
Salicornia nitens P.W. Ball & Tutin Shiny Glasswort
Native. The only records are: Census Catalogue of the Flora of Ireland (Scannell and Synnott,
1987), and scattered over upper part of saltmarsh along the south side of the Back Strand,
Tramore (S5900 and S6000, 2003, PRG – det. I.K. Ferguson).
0
1

80 Paul Green
Salicornia europaea L. Common Glasswort
Native. A common species found at all
2
levels of saltmarshes. Often growing
in areas submerged at high tide.
1
First record: Dungarvan, X29, 1899,
R.L. Praeger.
0
9
8
9
R S
WX
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Suaeda maritima (L.) Dumort Annual Sea-blite
Native. Annual Sea-blite can be found
in saltmarshes, the drift-line along
tidal banks of rivers and occasionally
amongst shingle at the top of beaches.
Often found growing with glassworts
and in areas that are submerged at high
tides. Only once reported from
Bunmahon (X4398, 1967, I.K.
Ferguson).
First record: reclaimed Back Strand,
Tramore, S50 or S60, 1871, R.M.
Barrington.
2
1
0
9
8
9
R S
WX
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Salsola kali subsp. kali L. Prickly Saltwort
Native. Prickly Saltwort can be seen on sandy ground just above the drift-line of beaches. All
sites are: along the shore line of Tramore Strand and around the edge of Tramore Burrow (S50
or S60, 1848, T. Chandlee, DBN – S50, 1899, R.L. Praeger – S6000 and S6100, 2001, PRG);
Dungarvan (X29, 1899, Praeger – X2793, 1997, G.A. Crouch and PRG); Kilmacleague (S60F,
1971, H.J. Killick); couple plants on edge of dunes at Saleen (X6299, 1995, D. McGrath –
2005, PRG); shore of dunes of Cunnigar (X2789 and X29Q, 1997, G.A. Crouch and PRG –
2007, BSBI field meeting); Ballynacourty (X3092, 2002, PRG); top of small sandy beach,
Ballynagaul (X2988, 2003, PRG) and Bunmahon (X4398, 2003, PRG). [The New Atlas gives a
record for S30, (which is an inland square) for after 1950, this is likely to be an error made
when converting the old Irish grid to that used today.]
AMARANTHACEAE
Amaranthus retroflexus L. Common Amaranth
Common Amaranth is of casual occurrence in the county. All records are: plentiful in field
newly used after being cleared of scrub, Ballynatray (X0486, 1978, R. Young, DBN);
Dungarvan – Cappoquin road (X19 or X29, 1989, N. Tirard); verge of the R672, Colliganwood
(X2197, 1997, PRG); single plant on verge of the N25, Dungarvan (X2694, 1997, G.A. Crouch
and PRG); four specimens on roadside west of Ballydonagh Cross Roads (S1615, 1997, PRG)
and five plants on roadside at Hickey’s Cross Roads (S6605, 2003, PRG – many plants in
2006, PRG and A. Stevenson).
0
1

` FLORA OF COUNTY WATERFORD 81
PORTULACACEAE
Montia fontana L. Blinks
2
1
0
9
8
9
R S
WX
0
1
First record: see subsp. amporitana.
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Montia fontana subsp. fontana L.
Native. Stream and river margins,
flushes, head of springs in the
mountains, sides of rides of conifer
plantations, on rocks in rivers and
streams, marshy fields, wet roadsides
and in field gateways. There is only
one record prior to 2001.
First record: near Lough Coumfea,
S2810, 1975, R.J. Pankhurst, BM.
Montia fontana subsp. variabilis Walters
2
1
0
9
8
9
R S
WX
0
1
2
1
0
9
8
9
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
R S
WX
2 3
4 5
6 7
Native. Stream and river sides,
mountain flushes, wet roadsides,
margins of ponds, damp pastures, rides
of conifer plantations, waste ground
and weed of gardens, etc. Blinks can
often be found as a large patch in
moving water and on rocks in rivers
and streams where it is normally a
perennial. In dry locations the plants
are usually very small and annuals.
I’m often not able to find seeds to
identify Blinks to a subspecies level.
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Native. Side of streams, rides of
conifer plantations, disused sand pits,
flushes, field gateways, damp and
boggy fields, unsurfaced tracks and the
edge of car park by church at Fenor
(S5001, 2001, PRG). There is only one
record prior to 2001.
First record: peaty moorland by the
Punchbowl, S2318, 1988, F.H. Perring
and D.A. Webb.
Montia fontana subsp. chondrosperma (Fenzl) Walters
Native. All records are: gravelly track by parking area, Glentaunemon Bridge (S0309, 2003,
PRG – det. J.C. Wallace); exposed bare dry soil by stream, Mayfield (S4617, 2004, PRG);
shingle on edge of River Nier by Deerpark Bridge (S1813, 2004, PRG); damp field, Pouldrew
0
1

82 Paul Green
(S5012, 2005, PRG); stony roadside, Coolnasmear (S2500, 2005, PRG); muddy area by
stream, Dunmore East (X6899, 2005, PRG); gravelly roadside, Treenearla Common (S2602,
2005, PRG).
Montia fontana subsp. amporitana Sennen
Native. Boggy areas, banks of streams,
2
marshy fields, flushes, lawns and field
gateways.
1
First record: marsh on east side of the
Ballyscanlan Hills, S50L, 1975, M.J.P.
Scannell, DBN.
0
9
8
9
R S
WX
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
CARYOPHYLLACEAE
Arenaria serpyllifolia L.
Native. Walls, rides of conifer plantations, pavement cracks, dunes, waste ground, disused
railways and disturbed ground. All records not separated to subspecies level are: Dungarvan
(X29, 1882, J. Britten and G. Nicholson, BM); top of wall, Glencairn Abbey (W9998, 1902,
H.W. Lett and C.H. Waddell, DBN); near base of wall half mile east of Knockmahon (X49P,
1966, G.C. Argent, LANC); ride of conifer plantation, Tower Hill (S41N, 2000, I.P. Green);
river wall near the Tower Hotel, Waterford (S6112, 2003, D. McGrath); The New Atlas also
has records from S40 for 1899 and S50 for 1962.
Arenaria serpyllifolia subsp. serpyllifolia L. Thyme-leaved Sandwort
Native. Dunes, waste ground, walls,
2
disused railways and disturbed areas.
Only common about Dungarvan.
1
Besides the first record there are only
two other records prior to 1997:
0
R S
Bunmahon (X49) and Dungarvan
WX
(X29) both 1899, R.L. Praeger.
9
Key:
First record: west of Clonmel, S11 or
S12, 1897, R.L. Praeger.
8
9
0
1
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Arenaria serpyllifolia subsp. lloydii (Jordan) Bonnier
Native. This subspecies is no longer recognised but plants at these sites do seem to me to be
distinctive, having particularly large capsules: rare on dunes at Lisselty (S6200, 1998, PRG and
X6299, 2005, PRG and A.C. Leslie); dunes of Cunnigar, Ballynacourty (X2789, 2005, PRG
and A.C. Leslie).
0
1

` FLORA OF COUNTY WATERFORD 83
Arenaria serpyllifolia subsp. leptoclados (Rchb.) Nyman
Native. Waste ground, walls, disturbed
Slender Sandwort
areas and rides of conifer plantations.
Most records are from walls. Even
2
though a rare species in the county, it
is now much better recorded than in
1
the past.
0
R S
First record: Dungarvan, X29, 1899,
WX
R.L. Praeger. The only record prior to 9
1997.
Key:
8
9
2 3
4 5
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
6 7
Moehringia trinervia (L.) Clairv. Three-nerved Sandwort
2
1
0
9
8
9
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Native. A species confined to wooded
areas and hedges, always in small
quantities. The only records between
the years 1894 and 1997 are: Lismore
(X09) and Cappoquin (X19) both
1899, R.L. Praeger and by Kilgreany
Cave (X1794, 1928, R.L. Praeger and
A.W. Stelfox).
First record: River Blackwater valley
west of Lismore, W99, 1894, DNFC
field meeting.
Honckenya peploides (L.) Ehrh.
Native. Sea Sandwort is confined to
Sea Sandwort
areas just above the strandline of many
sandy areas, where it can be locally
2
1
frequent. It is also found on shingle
banks and stony and (very rarely)
muddy shores.
0
R S
First record: Tramore, S50, 1840, A.
Taylor, DBN.
WX
9
8
9
Minuartia recurva (All.) Schinz & Thell. Recurved Sandwort
Native. I found thirty-one plants of Recurved Sandwort growing on an east facing rock face of
Coummahon on the east side of the Comeragh Mountains (S3209, 2001, DBN) which I
originally named as Minuartia verna (Spring Sandwort). It was renamed by myself and J.C.
Wallace in August 2006. Otherwise in Ireland only known from the Caha Mountains where it
straddles the Cork-Kerry border. Sixty-seven plants counted in 2007 on a BSBI field meeting.
0
0
1
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7

84 Paul Green
Minuartia hybrida (Vill.) Schischk. Fine-leaved Sandwort
Extinct. A rare plant in Ireland. There is only one Co. Waterford record: railway at Cappagh
(X19, 1928, R.L. Praeger and A.W. Stelfox). The railway is now disused and reclaimed as
farmland.
Stellaria holostea L. Greater Stitchwort
Native. A common plant of hedges but
2
can also be found on walls, areas of
scrub, edges of woods and sometimes
1
on waste ground. Absent from
0
Waterford City and the high ground of
the mountain ranges and rare in the far
east of the county.
9
Key:
First record: Co. Waterford, 1877, J.
Neale.
8
9
0
1
2 3
4 5
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
6 7
Stellaria graminea L. Lesser Stitchwort
Native. Hedges, areas of scrub, edges
2
of woods and grassy areas. There is no
apparent reason for its rarity in the east
1
of the county.
First record: Lismore, X09, 1882, R.P.
Vowell, DBN.
0
9
8
9
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Stellaria uliginosa Murray Bog Stitchwort
Native. Bogs, marshes, damp areas,
2
mountain flushes, springs, damp
1
roadsides, damp river and stream
banks and damp waste ground. Only
rare in areas of moorland.
0
First record: west of Clonmel, S11 or
S12, 1897, R.L. Praeger.
9
8
9
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Stellaria pallida (Dumort.) Crép. Lesser Chickweed
Native. There are only two records for Co. Waterford of this rare plant in Ireland, the latter
being the most westerly site of this island: fourteen plants on edge of dunes and around car
0
1

` FLORA OF COUNTY WATERFORD 85
park by The Saratoga (pub), Woodstown (S6905, 2005, PRG); scattered on dunes,
Ballynacourtey (X2789, 2006, PRG – X2790, X2691 and X2692, 2007, BSBI field meeting).
Stellaria media (L.) Vill.
Native. Common Chickweed can be
Common Chickweed
found in a wide variety of disturbed
2
habitats. A common weed of
1
cultivated ground. Absent from the
high moorland areas in the mountain
ranges.
First record: west of Clonmel, S11 or
0
S12, 1897, R.L. Praeger.
9
Cerastium tomentosum L. Snow-in-summer
Walls, field banks and waste ground.
2
Many of the records are near
1
habitation. Material discarded from
nearby gardens often takes root.
Increasing in this way.
0
R S
First record: X39 and S50, after 1950,
WX
New Atlas.
9
8
9
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
8
9
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Cerastium fontanum Baumg. Common Mouse-ear
Native. A very common species found in almost all types of habitat. One of the most
commonly recorded species in the county and only missing from one whole tetrad (S21D),
which is entirely heather moorland.
First record: near Ballyscanlan Lough, S50, 1871, R.M. Barrington, DBN.
Cerastium fontanum subsp. vulgare (Hartm.) Greuter & Burdet
Native. This is likely to be the common subspecies in the county and the vast majority of
records should belong here. Surprising there are only three specific records for this subspecies,
they are: road verge, Glendine (X0583, 2004, PRG and A.C. Leslie); roadside, Sapperton
North (X0492, 2004, PRG and A.C. Leslie) and stony ground near the summit of
Knockmealdown (S0508, 2004, PRG).
Cerastium fontanum subsp. holosteoides (Fr.) Salman, Ommering & de Voogd
Native. All records are: by the River Blackwater below Cappoquin (X19, 1899, R.L. Praeger,
DBN – det. A. Bennett); grassy muddy east bank of the River Blackwater south of Cappoquin
(X1097, 1986, M.B. Wyse Jackson), this is probably the same area as R.L. Praeger saw it in
0
1

86 Paul Green
1899; boggy flush, Coumlara (S3011, 2004, PRG and A.C. Leslie); boggy flush below Sgilloge
Loughs (S3011, 2004, PRG and A.C. Leslie) and boggy flushes on the side of Knocknagnauv
(S0607 and S0707, 2004, PRG). Subspecies holosteoides is probably the common subspecies
in the boggy areas and flushes in the Knockmealdown and Comeragh Mountains.
Cerastium glomeratum Thuill. Sticky Mouse-ear
Native. A common species found in
2
almost all types of habitat but rare in
areas of moorland and heather-covered
1
slopes of the mountain ranges. Absent
from the dunes of Cunnigar and
Tramore Burrow.
0
First record: west of Clonmel, S11 or
S12, 1897, R.L. Praeger.
9
8
9
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Cerastium diffusum Pers. Sea Mouse-ear
2
1
0
9
8
9
R S
WX
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Native. A plant of dry areas on the
coast from dunes to coastal grassland
and walls, also found a short way up
tidal rivers. The only times I have seen
it well away from the coast are from
the churchyard at Kilbrien (S2304,
1998); roadside, Ballynakill (S6310,
2000) and in pavement cracks along
The Quay, Waterford (S6112, 2005).
First record: Dungarvan, X29, 1899,
R.L. Praeger.
Cerastium semidecandrum L. Little Mouse-ear
Native. A rare species of the Irish coast, confined to dunes and sea-cliffs in the county. All Co.
Waterford records are: Dungarvan area (X29, 1899, R.L. Praeger); Cunnigar (X29Q, 1901,
R.M. Barrington, DBN – X2790, 2006, PRG); Bunmahon (X4398, 1997, I.P. Green); sandy
waste areas, Tramore (S5900, 1997, I.P. and P.R. Green); Tramore Burrow (S6000, S6100 and
S6200, 1998, D. McGrath – 2006, PRG); plentiful on edge of sandy field on edge of dunes at
Fornaght Strand (S7003, 2003, PRG and J.C. Wallace); sea-cliffs above Ballydowane Bay
(X4097, 2003, BSBI field meeting).
Sagina procumbens L. Procumbent Pearlwort
Native. A very common species in the county growing in all types of habitats, but can be
difficult to find in some tetrads. In the high ground of the mountain ranges it is more or less
confined to flushes and boggy areas. Absent from the dunes of Tramore Burrow. The only
whole tetrads Procumbent Pearlwort has not been recorded from are: S00A, L, V, S20U, S21D,
S30E, X09T, X17J and X19A.
0
1

` FLORA OF COUNTY WATERFORD 87
First record: Lismore, X09, 1882, R.P. Vowell, DBN.
Sagina procumbens var. spinosa S. Gibs.
Native. This variety of Procumbent Pearlwort has leaves that are ciliate, giving the plant a grey
appearance because of all the hairs. The only record is from the edge of drive to a house at
Cappagh (X1577, 2004, PRG and J.C. Wallace).
Sagina apetala Ard.
Native. A plant of waste ground,
Annual Pearlwort
walls, roadsides, rides of conifer
plantations, pavement cracks, garden
2
weed, etc.
First record: Lismore, X09, 1882, R.P.
1
Vowell, DBN.
0
R S
Sagina apetala subsp. apetala
2
1
0
9
8
9
R S
WX
0
1
Sagina apetala subsp. erecta F. Herm.
Native. By far the commoner
subspecies especially around the city
of Waterford in pavement cracks etc.
First record: Dunmore East, S60,
1897, R.L. Praeger.
9
8
9
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
WX
2 3
4 5
6 7
2
1
0
9
8
9
0
R S
WX
0
1
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Native. The rarer of the two subspecies
in the county. Like subspecies erecta it
is often found along the rides of
conifer plantations, which are made up
of brought-in stone. There is only one
record between 1902 and 1988 –
Tramore (S50, 1934, R.A. Phillips).
First record: wall, Waterford, S61,
1902, C.H. Waddell, BFT.
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7

88 Paul Green
Sagina nodosa (L.) Fenzl Knotted Pearlwort
Native. All records are: Dungarvan (X29, 1899, R.L. Praeger); Tramore (S50 or S60, 1899,
R.L. Praeger); New Atlas (S50 and X29, after 1950); plentiful on side of wall along edge of
saltmarsh, Dungarvan (X2793, 1997, G.A. Crouch and PRG – 2006, PRG); abundant on sea
wall and track, Lisselan Intake (S6002, 2000, PRG); rough pasture next to disused railway,
Knockhouse Upper (S5612, 2000, RPS Consultants Ltd); lots on damp area of dunes,
Ballynacourtey (X2789, 2003, G.H. Read); plentiful on top and sides of harbour wall,
Dungarvan (X2593, 2006, PRG, A.C. Leslie and R.D. Randall).
Sagina maritima Don Sea Pearlwort
2
1
0
9
8
9
R S
WX
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Native. A plant of open bare areas on
the top of sea-cliffs, wall tops by the
coast, the uppermost reaches of
saltmarshes and on roadsides by the
coast. Sea Pearlwort grows on the
roadside by Tramore Race Course
(S5802, 2002, I.P. and P.R. Green),
this is the only time I have come
across it where it is away from the
coast and then it is only a kilometre
inland. The New Atlas also has a
record for S61 after 1950.
First record: Back Strand, Tramore, S50 or S60, 1871, R.M. Barrington, DBN.
Spergularia rubra (L.) J. & C. Presl Sand Spurrey
Native? A rare plant in Ireland. There has to be some doubt cast on whether Sand Spurrey is
native in the county as all records are from rides of conifer plantations, which is a man-made
habitat. All county records are: south of Portlaw (S4613, 2001, I.P. Green); couple plants,
Coolbeggan West (X0687, 2002, PRG); Clashroe (S4518, 2003, PRG); Kilcana (S3810, 2003,
PRG); plentiful on several rides, Kilclooney (S3309 and S3409, 2003, PRG) and Ballybrack
(S4306, 2005, PRG). [The New Atlas has a record for the county from X28. The record is
credited to G.A. Crouch, I.P. Green and myself – this is an error as it is not on any copy of our
recording cards.]
Spergularia media (L.) C. Presl
Native. The vast majority of records
Greater Sea-spurrey
are from saltmarshes. Occasionally
found on the lower parts of maritime
2
cliffs.
First record: Dungarvan, X29, 1899,
1
R.L. Praeger.
0
R S
9
8
9
WX
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7

` FLORA OF COUNTY WATERFORD 89
Spergularia marina (L.) Griseb. Lesser Sea-spurrey
Native. The upper parts of saltmarshes,
2
maritime cliffs; rarely on walls by the
coast and once from a rubbish dump:
1
Tramore (S5901, 2006, PRG).
First record: Dungarvan, X29, 1882,
0
R S
J. Britten and G. Nicholson.
9
8
9
WX
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Spergularia rupicola Lebel ex Le Jol. Rock Sea-spurrey
Native. Maritime rocks and cliffs,
walls by the coast and amongst short
cliff top vegetation. Often abundant
where found. The only record away
from the coast is on the walls of the
ruin of Dunhill Castle (S5000, 1997,
I.P. and P.R. Green – 2005, PRG), but
this is only 2 kilometres inland.
First record: Tramore, S50, 1848, I.
Carroll, DBN.
2
1
0
9
8
9
R S
WX
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Spergula arvensis L. Corn Spurrey
2
1
0
9
8
9
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
A species of waste and disturbed
ground, cultivated fields, roadsides,
rides of conifer plantations, etc. Corn
Spurrey has benefited in recent years
from the building of new roads where
it is found on the newly-sown verges
and from house building where it
grows on the disturbed soil.
First record: Dungarvan, X29, 1899,
R.L. Praeger.
Spergula arvensis var. arvensis
There have only been twelve records named as this variety which has seeds with no (or an
extremely narrow) wing and the surface covered by clavate papillae: waste ground, Waterford
(S51V, 2003, J.C. Wallace); verge of the N25 by Haughton’s Cross Roads (S4608, 2006,
PRG); disturbed area of pasture, Monatrim Upper (X0495, 2006, PRG); waste ground,
Tramore (S5901, 2006, PRG); disturbed road verge, Waterford (S5611, 2006, PRG); disturbed
0
1

90 Paul Green
road verge, Lisnakill (S5307, 2006, PRG and A.C. Leslie); road verge, Drumslig (X1986,
2006, PRG and A.C. Leslie); road verge, Waterford (S5610, 2007, PRG); edge of arable field,
Waterford (S6210, 2007, PRG); verge of Waterford City bypass (S5709 and S5809, 2007,
PRG); waste ground on the banks of the King’s Channel, Waterford (S6311, 2007, PRG);
waste ground, Knockhouse (S5612, 2007, PRG).
Spergula arvensis var. sativa (Boenn.) Mert. & W.D.J. Koch
There are only seven records named as this variety which has seeds with no papillae and a
wider wing: Lismore area (X09, 1882, R.P. Vowell, DBN); around shore of Ballyshonock
Reservoir (S4509, 2006, PRG); road verge, Cheekpoint (S6812, 2006, A.C. Leslie); arable
field, Waterford (S6210, 2007, PRG); field gateway, Kilmacthomas (S4007, 2007, PRG);
roadside, Dunhill (S5000, 2007, PRG); waste ground on the banks of the King’s Channel,
Waterford (S6311, 2007, PRG).
Lychnis flos-cuculi L. Ragged-Robin
Native. Can be found in marshes,
bogs, damp open woodland, sides of
rides of conifer plantations, margins of
ponds, sides of rivers and streams,
damp roadsides and verges. Many of
the marshes and damp fields where I
have seen it have been drained since
1997. At the same time it seems
capable of colonizing new damp road
verges.
First record: Coumduala, S2914,
1882, H.C. Hart.
2
1
0
9
8
9
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Lychnis flos-cuculi var. albiflora
Native. The white form of Ragged-Robin can be found in a marsh on the north side of the road
at Mountaincastle (S1801, 2003, PRG), this marsh was drained in 2003, and the plant may not
persist for long. The only other record is from a marshy valley at Benvoy (X4899, 2004, R.
Garbett), here it is the only colour form found.
Lychnis coronaria (L.) Murray Rose Campion
There is only one record of this garden escape: two plants on side of path on coast at
Skehacrine, Dungarvan (X2793, 2002, I.P. and P.R. Green).
Agrostemma githago L. Corncockle
Once said to be a frequent weed of cereal crops in Ireland. There are very few records for the
county, all are listed: Ardmore (X17, 1805, R. Ball); Ballyernan, north of Ardmore (X17?,
1882, H.C. Hart); crops of oats were beautified by a plentiful crop of Corncockle on the cliffs
near the Metal Man, Newtown (X59U, 1933, DNFC field meeting); near Passage East (S60,
1937, M. O’Leary). The following records are for Corncockle sown with grass seed mix:
plentiful on slip road of the N25, Ahanaglogh (S3704, 2002, I.P. and P.R. Green); thousands of
plants on slip road of the N25, Kilmacthomas (S4005, 2002, I.P. and P.R. Green) – still there in
small numbers during 2004; newly created path along course of disused railway, Ballyrandle
(X2994, 2005, PRG); newly-sown verge, Dungarvan (X2593 and X2693, 2005, PRG); newlysown
path along disused railway, Dungarvan (X2793 and X2893, 2006, PRG).
0
1

` FLORA OF COUNTY WATERFORD 91
Silene vulgaris subsp. vulgaris Garcke Bladder Campion
Native. A rare plant on roadsides and
2
banks, field banks, railway banks and
in a working quarry. In the majority of
1
cases just a couple of clumps are
found.
0
R S
First record: west of Clonmel, S11 or
WX
S12, 1897, R.L. Praeger.
9
8
9
0
1
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Silene latifolia Poir. White Campion
A rare plant in the county and usually found in small numbers. All records are: Dungarvan
(X29, 1882, J. Britten and G. Nicholson – 1899, R.L. Praeger); Ardmore area (X17, after 1950,
New Atlas); Ballyduff area (W99, 1987, New Atlas); Helvick Head (X38E, 1997, I.P. Green);
edge of cultivated fields, Ardmore (X17Y, 1997 and 2000, I.P. Green); plentiful along edge of
cultivated field on coast, Kilgrovan (X39B, 1998, PRG); edge of cultivated field on coast,
Ardmore (X1978, 2000, PRG); single plant on waste ground, Ballynagaul (X2988, 2001,
PRG); disused quarry, Knockanpower Upper (X2987, 2001, I.P. Green); on tip, Tramore
(S5901, 2001, PRG); disused quarry, Kilcaragh (S6307, 2003, PRG); roadside, Sluggera Cross
Roads (X1777 and X1778, 2004, PRG and A.C. Leslie); Ardmore Head (X27D, 2004, PRG
and J.C. Wallace); road verge, Butlerstown (S5508, 2005, PRG); Waterford City bypass
(S6008, 2007, PRG); roadside, Bunmahon (X4399, 2007, PRG).
Silene uniflora Roth Sea Campion
Native. Sea-cliffs, cliff top vegetation,
2
dunes, walls on the coast and along
tidal rivers, shingle banks, roadsides
1
and rock ledges in the Comeragh
Mountains. The population on the
east-facing wall of Coum Eag (S2803 0
R
W
and S2804, 1994, D. McGrath – 2007,
D. McGrath) has leaves that are at 9
least twice as long and half the width
as the plants found on the coast. The
8
other mountain site is from the back
wall of Coumshingaun (S31F, 1995, S. 9
Gallwey and F. Winder).
First record: Bunmahon, X49J, 1882, H.C. Hart.
Key:
2000-2007
1987-1999
1900-1986
1746-1899
2 3
4 5
6 7
Silene dioica (L.) Clairv. Red Campion
Native. As a native Red Campion is a very rare plant in the county. The first record is from the
Comeragh Mountains in 1882 by H.C. Hart. All native sites are: back wall of Coumshingaun
(S31F, 1962, M.J.P. Scannell, DBN – 2001, PRG); scattered plants on east facing wall of
Coum Eag (S2804, 1991, D. McGrath – 2002, I.P. and P.R. Green); woodland, Carrigane
S
X
0
1

92 Paul Green
(W9199 and W9299, 1997, I.P. and P.R. Green – 2006, PRG and M.J. Stribley); rocky
woodland on the east side of Glenmore River (R9900 and R9901, 2000, PRG). As a probable
introduction: roadside, Carrigane (W9299, 1997, I.P. and P.R. Green); several patches on
roadside, Farranalahesery (S4303, 2000, I.P. and P.R. Green); roadside, Blenheim (S6510,
2004, PRG and D. McGrath). As a definite introduction: newly-sown slip road of the N25 at
Ahanaglogh (S3704, 2002, I.P. and P.R. Green) and Kilmacthomas (S4005, 2003, PRG). The
New Atlas also has a record for X17 after 1950, status unknown.
Saponaria ocymoides L. Rock Soapwort
There are only two records of this garden escape: single clump growing out of the side of a
field wall opposite dwellings at Bawnmore (X0797, 2004, PRG and A.C. Leslie, DBN); three
plants self-sown in pavement cracks, Dunmore Road, Waterford (S6210, 2006, PRG).
Saponaria officinalis L. Soapwort
All records for this garden plant are: bank of the River Blackwater above Lismore (W99 or
X09, 1884, H.C. Hart); Dunmore East (S60, 1897, R.L. Praeger); New Atlas (X29, after 1950);
roadside by Ballyduff Bridge (W9699, 1974, T. O’Mahony – 2005, PRG); road bank by ruin,
Cheekpoint (S6813, 1977, BSBI field meeting – 2007, PRG); Passage East (S7010, 1997, I.P.
and P.R. Green); road bank, Islandikane (X5298, 1997, I.P. Green – 2005, PRG); roadside,
Garrycloyne (W9997, 2000, PRG); roadside, Ahaunboy North (X0096, 2000, I.P. and P.R.
Green); road bank, Garrarus (X5498, 2000, PRG and M.L. Stephens); road bank, Carrigroe
(X0091, 2001, PRG); entrance to field, Ballynalahessery (X2993, 2004, PRG); road bank,
Boolabeg (S3315, 2004, PRG); roadside, Bawnatanavoher (X2494, 2005, PRG); roadside,
Knockroe (S6910, 2006, PRG); road bank, Mweelahorna (X2788, 2006, PRG).
Saponaria officinalis ‘Rubra Plena’
A form of Soapwort with dark red flowers grows on the east side of the N25 opposite a ruin,
Newtown Hill (X2083, 2004, PRG).
Vaccaria hispanica (Mill.) Rauschert Cowherb
There is only one record: two plants on waste ground at Tramore (S5802, 2005, PRG, DBN).
POLYGONACEAE
Persicaria campanulata (Hook. f.) Ronse Decr. Lesser Knotweed
The only records for this garden discard are: small patch on roadside, Lacken (X0391, 2000,
PRG); waste ground, Ballynakill (S6311, 2001, I.P. Green); roadside, Ballycondon (X0484,
2002, PRG) and large stand on roadside, Moorhill Glen (X0391, 2005, M.L. Stephens).
Persicaria wallichii Greuter & Burdet Himalayan Knotweed
Himalayan Knotweed can often form very large stands. All records are: site of old railway
station, Waterford (S6011, 1974, G. Spencer, DBN); plentiful on banks of Owennashad and
Glenakeefe rivers (S0401 and S0501, 1975, R.J. Pankhurst – 2007, PRG and O.J-L. Martin);
side of the R668, Moneygorm (S0505, 1997, G.A. Crouch and PRG – 2006, PRG); roadside,
Killeenagh South (X0688, 1998, PRG); patch on roadside, Knockanore (X0789, 2001, PRG);
patch at end of lane, Knockanore (X0788, 2002, PRG); very large patch on roadside by cross
roads, Monataggart (S0201, 2002, PRG); small clump on roadside, Ballynoe (S0400, 2002, I.P
and P.R. Green) and several clumps along edge of woodland on edge of Faithlegg Golf Course
(S6611, 2003, PRG and J.C. Wallace).