Wild Plants and Fungi
Wild plants are protected by the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. This act was amended by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.
Although picking most wild plants is not against the law, it is illegal to uproot wild plants without the permission of the owner of the land. In most cases fungi (mushrooms and toadstools) are treated as plants.
The picking of plants ot fungi can be governed by the Theft Act. In other words, you may need the permission of the land owner in order to remove flowers, fruits or fungi.
There is a list of plants which receive additional special
protection under the law (Schedule 8 of the Wildlife &
Countryside Act 1981). Shedule 8 is updated every five years. Visit the
DEFRA website for a definitive list of protected species.
These plants may not be:
- Uprooted
- Intentionally picked
- Intentionally destroyed
- Sold or advertised for sale
Non-Native Species
It is an offence to release seeds or to plant certain invasive non-native plant species, including some aquatic plants, into the wild habitat. The most well-known of there are the Japanese Knotwood and the Giant Hogweed.
