On our walk today I was asked about a wild flower that was growing at the side of the road that goes down the side of Ladybwer Reservoir. Having had a close look at it I had to admit that I didn’t know what it was. I took these photos and have now looked it up and discovered that it is Great Burnet.
My research has also revealed a few interesting facts about the plant. It is a member of the Rose family and in the past,
Burnet wine has been made from its flower heads. The latin name Sanguis (blood) and sorba (absorb) points to the use of its roots in medicine in years gone by as a cure for bleeding including nose bleeds. Apparently it can also be used to treat burns and insect bites and the leaves can be eaten in salads, tasting a little like cucumber.
Peak Walking Adventures Blog 