About

Andromeda polifolia is an evergreen shrub that typically reaches a height of around 40 cm. Its growth habit can be either upright or semi-prostrate, featuring slender, wiry stems. The leaves are linear and dark green, measuring up to 3.5 cm in length. From spring to early summer, this plant produces clusters of 2-5 flowers on delicate stalks, with blooms that can be white or pink.

About the genus

Andromeda consists of compact evergreen shrubs that exhibit a low, spreading habit. They feature narrow, leathery foliage and produce clusters of small, urn-shaped flowers that are typically white or pink during the spring and early summer months.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Full shade, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Loam
Soil pH
Acid
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Trees, Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moist, acid, humus-rich soil in sun, part or full shade
Pruning
Pruning group 10. Prune after flowering is finished, remove dead, diseased or damaged branches
Propagation
Propagate by layering, softwood cuttings, and suckers
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free