Queen Anne's Lace

Queen Anne’s (or Ann’s) lace is an alternative name for cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris) in the British Isles, and the common name of wild carrot (Daucus carota) in North America and is one of my favourite wildflowers that flowers from April to June. So I apologise in advance for sharing my passion of this beautiful weed before it disappears for another year.

Queen Anne, Queen Anne, has washed her lace
(She chose a summer's day)
And hung it in a grassy place
To whiten, if it may.

                                           

                                                Queen Anne, Queen Anne, has left it there, 

And slept the dewy night; 

Then waked, to find the sunshine fair, 

And all the meadows white.

 There seems to be various stories why these two plants are called Queen Anne's lace, some say it is because it has been named after Queen Anne (1574 to 1619) who was married to James I and was an expert lace maker. She challenged her ladies in waiting to produce a piece of lace as beautiful as the flower. Other stories say the flower reminded people of Queen Anne's lace head dress. Both these stories conjure up such lovely images.

Old Granary building supported by staddle stones surrounded by Queen's Anne lace.

The sun has disappeared the last few days and we are back to rain, let's hope we will see some more of summer again soon!

Sarah x