you're alright jack

English hedgerows in May are accompanied by stands of garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) or Jack-by-the hedge.
It is a member of the brassica family, but as its name suggests, its leaves and flowers have a distinct aroma.
The young leaves and the flowers can be added to salads or used as a garnish.

Our early butterfly, the orange tip (Anthocharis cardamines), seeks out garlic mustard to lay its eggs.

There is some debate between us about their place in the garden. You know I am always looking to use our native plants in the garden and this one is a particular favourite. So, I'm not digging it up!

The flowers of the plant are tiny, but close up you can appreciate them better.