Overview
Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d) is a bushy shrubs in the genus Calluna, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d) grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is attractive to pollinators and low maintenance. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants, rock garden and coastal.
About
Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' is a resilient evergreen shrub, reaching heights of 16-20 cm and spreading between 31-45 cm. It features yellow leaves and produces double white flowers from summer into autumn.
About the genus
Calluna consists of compact, evergreen shrubs that feature stems covered in small, overlapping leaves. At their tips, these plants bear spike-like clusters of diminutive, four-petaled flowers, each adorned with colored calyces.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Calluna
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d) size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Coastal
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d)
- Cultivation
- Grow in well-drained, acidic soil in full sun. See Hardy heathers for further advice
- Pruning
- Pruning group 10
- Propagation
- Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely) and other fungal diseases
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d)?
Grow in well-drained, acidic soil in full sun. See Hardy heathers for further advice.
Where is the best place to plant Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d)?
Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d) prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d) need?
Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d)?
Pruning group 10.
How big does Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d) grow?
Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d) reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d) hardy in the UK?
Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d) has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d)?
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings.
Is Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d) good for pollinators?
Yes — Calluna vulgaris 'Ruth Sparkes' (d) attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.