Overview

Cassiope fastigiata is a bushy alpine rockery in the genus Cassiope, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Cassiope fastigiata grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include rock garden and ground cover.

About

Cassiope fastigiata, known as Himalayan heather, is a bushy, evergreen shrub within the Ericaceae family. This compact plant features small, dark green leaves arranged in four ranks and produces solitary, nodding bell-shaped flowers in late spring and early summer. It thrives best in well-drained, acidic soils such as loam or sand, and prefers full sun to partial shade in sheltered, south-, west-, or east-facing aspects. Hardy to UK zone H6, it is suitable for rock gardens or as ground cover and offers winter interest in the garden.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Cassiope

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Cassiope fastigiata size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Alpine Rockery, Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Suggested uses
Rock garden, Ground cover

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Cassiope fastigiata

Propagation
Seed, Softwood and semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Cassiope fastigiata?

Cassiope fastigiata prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Cassiope fastigiata need?

Cassiope fastigiata grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Cassiope fastigiata hardy in the UK?

Cassiope fastigiata has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Cassiope fastigiata?

Seed, Softwood and semi-hardwood cuttings.

More in the Cassiope genus

Browse all Cassiope