It has been a source for flower collectors for centuries. Nationally Rare species, Hairy Mallow and Meadow Clary, were both collected from Ranscombe Farm, in 1699 and 1792 respectively. Other rarities include Ground Pine and Broad-leaved Cudweed and at least six species of orchid including Fly, Lady ('Fair Maidens of Kent') and Man Orchid.

The chalk grassland hosts a rich suite of plants including Wild Liquorice and Horseshoe Vetch.

The arable flora includes Corncockle, Blue Pimpernel, Night-flowering Catchfly, Narrow-fruited Cornsalad and Dense-flowered Fumitory.

What to see and when

• April: Bluebell, Early-purple Orchid
• May: Lady Orchid, Fly Orchid, Man Orchid
• June: Meadow Clary, Hairy Mallow, Ground Pine, Common Milkwort
• July: Corncockle, Clustered Bellflower, Four species of poppy ( Common, Rough, Prickly and Long-headed)

Location

Station Cuxton

By Bus. Arriva 151 to Cuxton.

By Bus. Arriva, 8, 140, 142 Medway Towns Service to Wells Rd then Elgin Gardens Underpass.

By Road. M2 to Junction 2, Carpark entrance on A228 200m on the right after exit roundabout.

Ranscombe Farm straddles the North Downs Way, long-distance footpath.

External links

• Plantlife Nature Reserves, Ranscombe Farm.
• 

References