Like everything else associated with Kerry Geopark, the flora of this region is unique and varied, due largely to the vast range of habitats that can be found:- mountains, lakes, rivers, woods, sandy and rocky seashores and of course, boglands.
The dominant shrubs throughout the Kerry Geopark region are Gorse and Rhododendron Ponticum.
The hedgerows and roadside plants contribute greatly to the vibrant colours of Kerry Geopark. While the variety of species present are too numerous to mention it is worth mentioning the two naturalised species, Fuchsia Magellanica and Montbretia (Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora) which are very prominent during the months of July and August.






Kerry Geopark is also home to a number of rare plants including:


The dainty Kerry Lilly (Simethis Planifolia) which grows on the dry heathlands near Derrynane and Caherdaniel;






Irish Lady's tresses (Spiranthes Romanzoffiana) which can be found at Lough Currane, Waterville and in a boggy field at Carragh Lake;



The Sea Pea (Lathyrus Japonicus Maritimus), a very rare plant which, at times, can be found on the western tip of Rossbeigh Dunes;





Blue Eyed Grass (Sisyriinchium Bermudiana) can be found growing at a small number of sites throughout the Geopark, most notably the edges of Lough Currane, Waterville.







Some of the most striking flowers are the Butterworts - carnivorous plants of which three species are found in Kerry. Large-flowered butterwort " Pinguicula grandiflora only occurs in Kerry and parts of west Cork, it has large 2cms wide purple flowers and is found easily in mountainous areas. Pale butterwort and common butterwort also found but less common.

To find out more about Irish Flora in general and Kerry Flora in particular, visit www.irishwildflowers.ie