Incredible Wildflowers of the Burren

Ireland is a land of rugged beauty, but few places are as unique as the Burren. Nestled in County Clare, this vast limestone landscape may seem barren at first glance, but in reality, it harbours one of Europe’s most significant regions for biodiversity and flora ecosystems.

Plants – and their stunning flowers – from both sub-Arctic regions all the way down to the Mediterranean flourish side by side in the Burren. In a wonderful and unexpected blend not often found in Ireland, species typically found in open grasslands thrive alongside those more commonly associated with lush woodlands. All of the Burren’s flora combine to create a breathtaking display of colour and diversity that captivates botanists, nature lovers and explorers alike.

Hoary Rockrose

Season: April – July
Scientific Name: Helianthemum oelandicum
Found along the west coast of the Burren and abundant on Mullach Mór, this delicate plant features pale yellow flowers that open only in sunlight. Its dark green leaves have a silvery felt underside, adding to its charm.

Spring Gentian

Season: April – June
Scientific Name: Gentiana verna
This iconic alpine plant is the signature species of the Burren, thriving in areas where grazing keeps vegetation low. It features a vivid blue flower with a white centre, blooming on a single stem and closing in dull weather. Its leaves form a distinctive rosette.

Oxeye Daisy/ Dog Daisy

Season: May – September
Scientific Name: Leucanthemum vulgare
Common across the Burren, particularly along roadsides and pastures, this striking flower resembles a large daisy. It features bright yellow florets encircled by white petals, blooming as solitary flowers on upright stems.

Dark-Red Helleborine

Season: July – August
Scientific Name: Epipactis atrorubens
This orchid thrives in limestone crevices and gravelly areas, particularly on higher slopes. It features a tall, hairy stem adorned with deep red, asymmetrical flowers that gracefully droop.

Herb Robert

Season: April – November
Scientific Name: Geranium robertianum
Typical on limestone pavement and in rocky crevices, this plant features five deeply divided leaflets on long stalks, turning red in autumn. When crushed, the leaves release a strong scent, earning it the nickname “stinking bobby.”

Wall Rue

Season: Year round
Scientific Name: Asplenium ruta-muraria
Frequently found on limestone pavements and walls, this plant has dark green, leathery leaves.

Sea Campion

Season: May – September
Scientific Name: Silene uniflora
Often found on coastal limestone pavements, this plant features grey-red sepals at the base of its flower head. Its petals are distinctly two-lobed, while narrow leaves form a low-growing mat along the ground.

Primrose

Season: March – May
Scientific Name: Primula vulgaris
Common in grassy areas, along roadsides, field walls, scrub, woodlands, and grazed pastures, this plant features delicate pale yellow flowers with a more decadent yellow interior, each blooming on a solitary stem. Its leaves are distinctively crinkled.

Common Dog-Violet

Season: March – June
Scientific Name: Viola riviniana
Found along roadsides, limestone landscapes, and peat-rich areas, this plant features blue-violet flowers with a pale spur and distinctive heart-shaped leaves.

O’Kelly’s Spotted Orchid

Season: June – August
Scientific Name: Dactylorhiza fuchsii ssp. okellyi
Common along roadsides and grassy areas, this flower is a striking pure white, free of tints or markings. Its flat labellum features three evenly shaped lobes.