About
This spreading, evergreen shrub up to 45cm high and 1m wide, with tiny, narrow, mid-green leaves. Short sprays of small amethyst-purple, urn-shaped flowers are produced in 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 moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained acidic soil in full sun. See Hardy heathers for further advice
PruningPruning group 10
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