SOME of Scotland’s best-loved flowers are facing extinction as a result of global warming, scientists have warned.

Research by students at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh predicts species such as clematis could be “noticeably worse off” in 50 years’ time.

Others, including the popular rhododendron, could flourish and even presently chilly Shetland could become the preferred habitat of some of our favourite species of flower.

Himalayan Blue Poppy, part of the capital’s floral emblem, is predicted to wilt under a warming sun. Researchers Chris Smart and Dr Alan Elliott used “worst-case scenario” climate models for 2070, which predict Scotland will be hotter and drier all year round to study the prospects of four common garden plants. They focused on four plants commonly found in backyards in Scotland. The most alarming outcome was for the Himalayan Blue Poppy, a beautiful flowering plant.

The paper states that the suitable climatic conditions for the poppy would “reduce significantly”, with only the far north-east and parts of Shetland expected to remain in its climatic comfort zone.

Dr Elliott said: “Some plants will prosper and others will struggle.”