Twinflower  (Linnaea borealis)

The main threats to twinflower come from damage during forestry operations, although some think it might improve the plant’s survival within an area through the dispersal of plant fragments. Overgrazing by sheep and deer can be a threat as well, although a lack of grazing can lead to the plants being crowded out by more dominant vegetation. There is also the risk of loosing small isolated populations of related plants.

The twinflower is listed as a priority species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP). The plant is known to have declined considerably in recent years, and is now found on some 50 sites in north-east Scotland. There used to be a small population in northern England, thought to have arrived with pine seedlings.

Native pine woodland is categorised as a priority habitat under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, and many populations of twinflower in Scotland are on designated sites, so the plant enjoys a fair measure of protection. There are also populations in cultivation, notably at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh, and the botanic gardens of both Edinburgh and Aberdeen Universities. However, it is felt that more should be done to improve this attractive plant’s chances of survival in this country. A number of projects are underway to variously assess the true status of twinflower, and study the problems of sexual regeneration. This may include plans to re-locate specimens to different areas in an attempt to overcome the problem of non-fertilisation between plant clones, and help produce viable seed stock. There are hopes that more can be learned about the plant’s biology by exchanging information with botanists from other countries where twinflower grows.

The Forestry Commission are one of the partners working on the plans to conserve twinflower, and they are the main UK contact agency for this species. Plantlife Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage are also engaged in research work for this attractive species.