Results announced in poll to find Scotland's favourite tree and flower

The results of an online poll to find Scotland's favourite tree and flower have been announced by Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE). The RBGE ran the contest after being inspired by Scottish Natural Heritage's contest to find the nation's favourite animal.

RBGE received 1,677 votes from around the world in its quest and revealed that the winner is the Scots Pine, which received 15 percent of the votes, followed by the Scottish Bluebell - named as the nation's favourite flower with 14 percent of votes.


In fourth place was the Rowan Tree, followed by the Scottish Primrose and the Silver Birch. Among the more unusual species to receive votes were: bog myrtle, melancholy thistle, Arran whitebeam, round-leaved sundew, twinflower, eyebright and woolly willow.

RBGE’s science conservation officer Dr Heather McHaffie said: 'The survey has been fascinating and has also helped provoke discussion about the fragility of our trees and plants. Many of Scotland’s native species are vulnerable or endangered. This can be for a number of reasons from changing land uses or grazing to climate change. From Shetland to the Borders, RBGE is taking a lead to bring at least 75 percent of threatened native species into its conservation collections.'

For more on the work of the RBGE, visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh website.

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