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- This delicate-looking plant can be seen on the verges of the Cleveland Way. This year (2022) there is a large patch on the bund by the gate where the Cleveland Way joins Cowbar Lane, almost opposite the cottages.
- The plant scrambles over scrub and waste places and up hedges (hence the name ‘ramping’ ) and is most easily spotted between May and September. It can smother other low growing plants.
- It is part of the poppy family.
- The purple tipped white flowers gradually become pink after pollination.
- This species is much less widespread than the Common Fumitory and can be found mainly near the coast and some inland areas.
- It is not edible but extracts from this species have been tested as a botanical drug for its gastro-intestinal and anti-inflammatory properties.
- It is reported that if the stems are broken they seep a white latex which is dangerous to eyes and capable of causing glaucoma.
- It is classed as ‘nationally scarce’ and listed as a Priority Species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Broad-spectrum herbicides used in farming can affect it.
