Gorse

Gorse is a thorny, evergreen, perennial shrub that grows to 1-2 m in height. It is ash green in colour and has thick, neat branches. Its flowers are isolated or can grow in clusters. They have a vanilla-coconut fragrance and can be found in any season, even in winter. In Celtic tradition, this heliophile plant was associated with the spring equinox and the Celtic god of light, Lugh. This plant is a symbol of love and fertility: a gorse branch was traditionally added to a bride’s bouquet. Gorse also plays a role in the ecosystem. It serves as a source of nourishment for insects and honey production: bees come and look for nectar and pollen. It also helps birds, butterflies and other insects build nests which enhances a more beautiful biodiversity.