Winter flowers on evergreen scrub

Gorse

Ulex europaeus

The yellow of gorse can interrupt the greyest day on an Irish hillside.

Season Window

01 Dec – 28 Feb

Heath, coastal slopes, rough pasture and open scrub

Harvest

How we meet this plant

Enjoy flowers in place; if gathering is permitted, take very little and protect hands from thorns.

Preparation

Gorse has local flower traditions, but this profile does not recommend home medicinal extracts.

Community Use

A strong winter plant for discussing scrub habitat, flowering and pollinator shelter.

Safety

Avoid seeds and concentrated preparations. Thorn injuries and misidentification are risks; seek qualified advice before medicinal use.