Members of the genus Ulex (Gorse) are a common feature of lowland heath and are characteristic species of the habitat. U. europaeus is abundant on both North and South Fell in a varied range of locations.

 

It can be seen bordering habitats such as semi-improved grassland, at the fringes of Calluna stands and the margins of the valley mire at Wanister Bog.

 

Importantly Ulex is amongst the first invaders of heathland during successional processes and so must be managed to control its spread. It is adapted for growth on recently burned ground and its long-lasting seeds are stimulated by light scorching, allowing it to flourish in heathland cleared in this way either accidentally, via acts of arson or by intentional and controlled burn-back of areas as a pest-plant management strategy.  

 

However, it has also been suggested that Ulex species are less of a threat to heathland natives when compared to other invaders such as Pteridium aquilinum as the physical structure of stands is less dense and so, for example, is less likely to out-compete Calluna for light. The presence of Ulex on lowland heaths has also been attributed to greater coleopteran (beetle) diversity and so at a managed level may be beneficial to biodiversity on sites such as Waldridge.

 

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