About
Attaining tree-like proportions in the wild, but usually a bushy, erect shrub to about 2m in cultivation, with tiny, needle-like, dark green leaves. Tiny, bell-shaped, greenish-brown flowers, producing clouds of pollen, appear in late spring and early summer.
About the genus
Erica can be prostrate or erect, evergreen shrubs with fine, needle-like leaves in whorls, and racemes or panicles of small, bell-shaped or tubular flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toAzores
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in well-drained, neutral to acid soil in full sun. See Hardy heathers for more detailed advice
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in mid- or late summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fungal diseases, including honey fungus (rarely), and Phytophthora root rot, in wet conditions