When the old cemetery was first laid out in the early Victorian period it was planned as an arboretum, but as well as trees certain flora was established, indeed much of it was probably already there as the site had previously been part of Southampton Common. Subsequently the original flora has not been affected by being disturbed or sprayed with chemicals and over the years and decades more plants had been introduced on the graves. The old cemetery is now one of the richest parts of the whole Common for summer flora. We should see native plants like harebell, heathers, St John’s-wort’s, rosebay, orpine, and devil’s-bit scabious in flower. Non-native species include broad-leaved everlasting pea, the foodplant of the rare long-tailed blue butterfly which if it visits us this year, will be around in August. Magnifying lenses and binoculars may be useful. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
Led by Phil Budd
Meeting Place: Main cemetery entrance off Cemetery Road
Grid Ref: SU412136
Postcode: SO15 7AF
What3Words: ///hulk.vast.serve
