The inconspicuous brown flowers arrive before the leaves but even so this an easy plant to identify. It is a small shrub tending to grow in wet, boggy or damp areas and the crushed leaves or flowers are extremely aromatic. The plant has the reputation of being useful to repel insects and the powerful smell isn't unpleasant.

Predominantly a northern plant, Myrica gale is common in Scotland but also the west of Wales and England. It is uncommon in much of central and eastern England. It is common in Ireland particularly in the west.

Cors Goch, Anglesey, 11th May 2005

Added on 1st June 2005, updated 5th January 2011