The Wild Gladiolus (Gladiolus illyricus) in Britain: Past, Present and Future

A one-day conference on its biology and status

Brockenhurst Village Hall, New Forest, Hampshire
Saturday 13th March 2010

The Wild Gladiolus (Gladiolus illyricus Koch) is one of the most prized and emblematic wild plants of the New Forest. Yet knowledge of its existence in Britain goes back little more than 150 years; its taxonomy and status have often been called into question; and now its fortunes seem to be in decline.

This one-day conference will bring together many of the people who have studied the plant in recent decades, with the hope of consolidating knowledge, encouraging further study and supporting conservation efforts. The day will be organised as a series of formal presentations, each followed by an opportunity for questions and discussion. The day will be rounded off by an open discussion on ways forward in the study and conservation of the plant.

The conference will be chaired by Clive Chatters, Chairman of the New Forest National Park Authority. Clive is well-known for his botanical writing and his work over many years to conserve Hampshire wildlife and safeguard traditional land management.

The conference fee will be £5 per head, to include refreshments during the day. An optional buffet lunch can also be booked at a modest extra cost.

A full brochure and booking form can be downloaded by clicking here,
or obtained from:
Natalie Rogers
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust
Beechcroft House
Vicarage Lane
Curdridge
Hampshire SO32 2DP
Email: NatalieR@hwt.org.uk

For further information about the day's content, contact:
Martin Rand
Email: vc11recorder@hantsplants.org.uk