Spurge Laurel
Daphne laureola

© Bob Ford/Nature Portfolio     Spurge Laurel flowers photographed on February 16th 2009, near Newstead Road

Also known as Laurel-leaved Daphne, this is a fairly uncommon plant in Dorset, particularly in the south of the county. So it was a real surprise when this plant turned up under the Sycamores on the west side of the embankment next to the Outdoor Education Centre at Newstead Road. This is perfect habitat for the species, but only in recent years since the trees have grown high enough to provide shade. The question is, how did it get here?