About

A compact evergreen shrub with an upright habit, and slightly brittle stems. Leaves are linear and dark blue-green, and pale pink, scented flowers are produced from late winter to spring.

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
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFlower

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
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fungal diseases