On limestone pavement where this was found, the shrubs are very small which makes them convenient for a photograph.

This shrub had two interesting uses in days of old. As a medicine it was a powerful purgative being both a laxative and making you sick. It was also grown at one time for making charcoal because the ground charcoal from F. alnus made the best gunpowder.

Common in England and with a good amount in Wales, the frequency of records drops off sharply as you travel north so there is little in Scotland. It is uncommon in Ireland and mostly found in western, central parts of the island.

Near Lough Bunny, Burren, Ireland 21st May 2005

Amended/Corrected 24th May 2005, updated 16th January 2009, updated 31st March 2010