Seeing yellow

Common Gorse, Ulex europaeus, is found throughout the Valley. A dense, spiny, evergreen shrub, rarely growing more that two metres (six foot), it is probably best known for its bright, golden-yellow flowers, which smell strongly of coconut. The flowers are most prolific at this time of year and if you drive anywhere in the Valley you can’t help but notice the gorse with its dark green foliage and masses of bright yellow flowers. However did you know that Gorse is in flower practically all year round hence the old saying:

“When Gorse is out of bloom,
Kissing's out of season.”