In the UK, natural navigation relies on observing how plants and mosses respond to sunlight and prevailing weather. Rather than providing an exact compass bearing, indicator species—like mosses, ivy, and sun-loving flowers—offer clues about general orientation by revealing which directions receive the most sunlight, moisture, and wind. [1]

Indicator Plants and Growth Patterns

• Mosses and Liverworts: In the UK, the northern hemispheres dictate that north-facing sides of trees, rocks, and hillsides receive the least amount of sunlight, making them colder and damper. Mosses thrive in these conditions, meaning thick moss patches often indicate a general northerly direction. However, avoid relying on this solely, as heavy shade or moisture can cause moss to grow on all sides of a tree. [1, 2]
• Ivy Growth: Common ivy (Hedera helix) will preferentially grow up the side of a tree or wall that provides protection from the prevailing south-westerly winds. This means heavy, dense ivy growth on the wind-shielded side can act as an indicator of an easterly or north-easterly orientation. [1]
• Berry-Bearing Shrubs: Bushes such as gorse or blackberries produce fruit on their warmest, most sun-exposed side. In the UK, this indicates the southern or south-western exposure. [1]
• Ferns and Grasses: In open moorlands and woodlands, grass grows thicker, taller, and greener on the south-facing slopes, where the sunlight exposure is at its peak. Ferns will also orient their fronds toward the sun, making south the general direction of their optimal growth. [1]