Stewardship Graziers Given Poisonous Plant Warning
UK – Upland farmers have been told to discuss grazing arrangements with their Natural England officer on account of rising prevalence of a poisonous plant.
26 June 2015
1 minute read
Bog asphodel is spreading in upland areas and is poisonous to cattle and sheep, warns the National Farmers Union.
The plant causes two conditions; a photosensitive disorder known as ‘aveld’ in Norway, ‘saut’ in Cumbria and ‘plochteach’ or ‘head yellowses’ in Scotland and kidney problems.
Found on damp acidic heaths and boggy moorland up to 1000 metres, Bog Asphodel produces bright yellow spikes of flowers in the summer.
The NFU said: “If you are entering agri-environment or in an agri-environment scheme for pasture with bog asphodel present, you will need to discuss grazing arrangements, which could be part of your agri-environment agreement, with your Natural England project officer.”
