11:48am Friday 2nd September 2005
The rare starfruit plant has returned for a second consecutive year in West End, Esher the only known occurrence in Britain.
The plant, also known as damasonium alisma, is blooming in Halfpenny Pond and Chequer's Pond on Esher Common thanks to the care shown by Dave Page, countryside estates officer.
As a result of his hard work he has been given the esteemed title of Plantlife Flora Guardian, given to people designated to care for rare wild species.
The starfruit is a distinctive water plant with simple, white flowers on short stems, and large, spiky, star-like fruits after flowering. It grows in muddy ponds, with its stems sticking up just above the water surface.
It is classified as "endangered and protected" under the Wildlife Countryside Act 1981.
Dave said: "Following many years of successful conservation work which resulted in the spectacular re-appearance of starfruit in 2004, I am delighted to record the continued presence of this rare flora.
"I am delighted to be recognised as the Flora Guardian for this habitat."
He was nominated for the title by Plantlife, the national wild plant charity.
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.surreycomet.co.uk