Ian Morton Ian Morton is a journalist with a particular fascination for the natural world, and a regular contributor to Country Life. The history of the elder tree: From deities and dryads to Shakespeare and J.K. Rowling Does our love of a tall glass of elderflower cordial speak of an ancient connection with the tree itself, wonders Ian Morton. Curious Questions: One for sorrow, two for joy – but why are we so superstitious about magpies? Superstitions swirl around all manner of different birds, but never more so than with magpies. We take a look at why. Delights of the daisy: The tiny flower with huge charm that's entranced artists for centuries We all love a daisy chain, but there’s more to this humble flower than meets the (day’s) eye, discovers Ian Morton. < Previous