Ragged-robin

Scientific name

Lychnis flos-cuculi

The pink, frayed flowers of Ragged-robin are an increasingly rare sight as our wild wetland habitats disappear. You can help: grow native plants in your garden and enjoy the hum of visiting insects.

Species information

Statistics

Height: up to 75cm

Conservation status

Declining.

When to see

May to August

About

Swaying in a gentle breeze, the delicate, pink flowers of Ragged-robin can be a joy to behold in any wildflower meadow, damp pasture or woodland ride. But it's not just passing humans that benefit from its star-shaped blooms - bumblebees, butterflies and Honeybees all enjoy the nectar it produces. A favourite among gardeners, try planting Ragged-Robin in a boggy area or flower border and see who comes to visit.

How to identify

Ragged-robin is a perennial. It has much-divided, pink flowers (hence the name 'Ragged') and narrow, grass-like leaves.

Distribution

Found almost everywhere in the UK.

Habitats

Did you know?

Perhaps you don't know what to do with a waterlogged area of your garden, or you fancy extending the borders of your pond to make it more wildlife-friendly? If this is the case, a bog garden could be the ideal answer. Moisture-loving plants, such as Ragged-Robin, will thrive here, attracting dragonflies, bees and butterflies, which, in turn, bring frogs, toads and other animals. To find out more visit our Wild About Gardens website.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts manage many wetland nature reserves for the benefit of the wildlife they support. You can help by supporting your local Trust and becoming a member; you'll find out about exciting wildlife news, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities, and will be helping local wildlife along the way.