Ireland year 1988 Endangered Flora of Ireland stamps

Ireland year 1988 Endangered Flora of Ireland stamps

The “Endangered Flora of Ireland” stamp set issued by Ireland in 1988 focuses on raising awareness about the preservation of Ireland’s unique and endangered plant species. This series highlights some of the rare and threatened flora native to Ireland. Here are the details of the set:

1. – Killarney Fern (Trichomanes speciosum):
   • The Killarney Fern is a rare and delicate fern found in damp, shaded areas, primarily in Killarney, County Kerry. The stamp features an illustration of this fern, showcasing its finely divided fronds. The Killarney Fern is protected due to its rarity and sensitivity to environmental changes.
2. – Marsh Saxifrage (Saxifraga hirculus):
   • The Marsh Saxifrage is a small, flowering plant that grows in wet, marshy habitats. The stamp depicts this plant with its yellow flowers and characteristic leaves. It is considered endangered due to habitat loss and changes in land use.
3. – Irish Lady’s Tresses (Spiranthes romanzoffiana):
   • The Irish Lady’s Tresses is an orchid species with spiral-arranged white flowers. This stamp illustrates the orchid, highlighting its unique floral structure. It is found in damp meadows and is threatened by habitat degradation and drainage.
4. – Blue-eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium bermudiana):
   • Blue-eyed Grass, despite its name, is not a true grass but a member of the iris family. The stamp features this plant with its striking blue flowers. It grows in coastal and wetland areas and is endangered due to habitat destruction and competition from invasive species.

These stamps not only serve as a reminder of Ireland’s rich botanical diversity but also emphasize the importance of conserving these endangered plant species. They are valued by collectors and environmentalists alike for their beauty and the vital message they convey about biodiversity and conservation.