Fauna
Plant · GBIF taxon 2951984

Gorse

Ulex europaeus

Also known as Common Gorse, Furze, Whin

Common gorse forms dense, impenetrable evergreen thickets cloaked in fragrant yellow blooms that exude a distinct scent of coconut and vanilla. Its mature leaves are reduced to sharp, grooved green spines, an adaptation that minimizes water loss while repelling heavy grazing by herbivores. The plant fixes atmospheric nitrogen into poor soils, and its dry, oil-rich branches ignite easily, fueling cycles of fire that crack open seed pods to regenerate the stand.

ThornyFloweringNitrogen-fixing
Gorse reference1 / 7
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Photosynthesis (Autotroph)
Predators
  • Gorse Seed Weevil
  • Gorse Spider Mite
  • European Rabbit
ThreatsHerbicide clearing, biocontrol weevils, and habitat development
HabitatsHeathlands, coastal bluffs, open pastures, and disturbed roadsides
Life span15–30 years
Classification
  1. FamilyFabaceae
  2. SpeciesUlex europaeus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance, though stiff spines can scratch bare skin.
Responsible observation
  • Scent: Lean close to open blossoms on sunny afternoons to catch their distinct coconut scent.
  • Footwear: Wear sturdy boots and thick trousers when walking near stands to avoid spine punctures.
  • Sound: Listen on hot summer days for the faint snapping of seed pods bursting open.
Related species
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