April and May are the peak months to see both Gorse (Common Gorse) and Broom at their best with their vibrant flowers glowing and lightening up the dreariest of days. Both species are often mistaken for one another and it can be difficult to tell them apart, especially when they are often seen growing together.
Both species are closely related and members of the pea family, with both bearing pea-type flowers (think of sweet pea) and seed pods. Although they do occur together, there are differences between the two to help with identification.
The key difference is that Gorse has prickly spines which are absent in Broom. Other subtle differences are the smell of the flowers, Gorse flowers being likened to Coconut and Broom, Vanilla. Gorse flowers are more of an amber colour as opposed to the vibrant yellow of Broom, with some flowers containing a splash of red.
As I said, this is the best time of year to see the flowers at their best, although both do flower all the year round. There are particularly impressive bushes along the canal between Shipley and Thackley and the photos below are taken from my recent walk there, however they can be seen in a variety of habitats, especially heathland and grassland. Gorse is a particular favourite bush of choice for smaller nesting birds such as warblers and I often see or hear Blackcaps and Chiffchafs whenever there is Gorse present.
Next time you are out and about, look out for these beautiful plants and have a good sniff at their flowers and see if you agree with how the scents have been described, I would be interested to hear your thoughts.
I hope you get to enjoy one of Spring's many spectacles.
Broom with its splashes of red is beautiful, particularly in close-up 😃