Distribution and ecology of small cow-wheat (Melampyrum sylvaticum L.; Scrophulariaceae) in the British Isles

Summary

Melampyrum sylvaticum L. is an annual, hemiparasitic herb which mainly grows in light woodland and on upland ledges in northern Britain and Ireland. Its distribution is poorly known due to confusion with the variable M. pratense. A review of its ecology and distribution has been carried out and it has now been recorded from 83 10-km squares in the British Isles, including three in England and two in Wales; an updated distribution map is given. It is probably declining slowly in the lowlands at the margins of its range due to afforestation, development of dense shade, over-grazing and intensive agriculture.