May 21st – Laburnum, or golden chain is one of the most beautiful blossoms of the British spring. Vivid yellow green, hanging in strings like some fluorescent downpour, it used to be a lot more prolific than it is today.

There used to be loads of this tree growing in parks, gardens and public spaces – but it hides a deadly secret. 

The seeds of this beautiful tree are deadly toxic, and after several accidental child poisoning incidents in the 80s, many of the trees were cut down for reasons of public safety.

Fortunately, some remain, like this example on the canal between the towpath and the cemetery at Bentley Bridge in Walsall.