Flowering plants

Higher plants are what make almost every metre of land in Scotland green in summer. You will find higher plants from the high tide mark to our mountain tops. They come in every size from huge ancient trees to herbs so tiny that you may not notice them. Most have flowers that further brighten our environment in their season. They provide the livelihood of every farmer and forester and the food of the majority of animals. Every year higher plants lock up tonnes of the carbon dioxide that is causing global warming. Without them existence would be impossible: they even make the very oxygen we breathe.

An overview of Scottish plants

Scotland has a diverse flora that defines its unique character. Read about some of the highlights and discover how you can get involved.

Woodland plants

Bluebells, primroses and twinflower are just some of the beautiful plants found in Scotland's woodlands. Find out more on these and other woodland plants.

Plants of mountains, heaths and bogs

Plants employ many strategies to survive these harsh places. Find out how these plants cope with these environments and much more...

Plants of lochs, rivers and marshes

Scotland has a wealth of freshwater habitats. Find out about the plants that enjoy the wet!

Farmland and croftland plants

Discover more about the many plants that have adapted to the conditions that have been created by generations of farmers and crofters working the land.

Coastal and marine plants

Find out more about the kinds of plants that stabilise coastal land and provide some spectacular displays of colour.

Plants in our villages, towns and cities

Our urban greenspaces can provide home to a surprising variety of wild plants.