Colours, textures, patterns: the slow but steady miracle of flowers unfurling on the forest verge, Grizedale. Even the young leaves bright green are delicate unfolding in the light.

Hogweed is the common name for this native plant in the carrot family, not toxic like the non-native giant hogweed. The Wildlife Trust tells us: “The hollow stems of hogweed were traditionally used in many children’s games as water guns, pea-shooters and swords.” Clearly, it’s been around since the days of foraging hogs (possibly for its root as it’s related to the carrot family), and sword play.

Attracting many insects, hogweed spreads its many seeds but can be welcomed into wild gardens by cutting off the seedheads before they scatter. However, on a winter frosty morning, any standing dried seedheads are glorious, sparkling architectural wonders.

When is a wild plant and flower a weed? Beauty, scent, nectar, and hollow stems for hibernation, all offer a different perspective. Hogs knew better, for they tasted delicious.

“Praise Him, all creatures here below”

[Gill Henwood]

From a doxology on the Holy Trinity, by Bishop Thomas Ken (1637-1710)
It is sometimes linked with St Francis of Assisi and his canticle of the Creatures.
This is the full doxology

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heav’nly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!

P.S. There will be a short break before the next Blog entry, after a short holiday. {Mr G}