About
A low growing, compact shrub with evergreen, dark green, needle-like foliage to around 25cm (10in). From late spring to summer it bears small, cup-shaped, mid-pink flowers in dense clusters at the ends of the stems.
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
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun. See also Hardy heathers cultivation.
PruningSee pruning group 10
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in mid-to late autumn and by layering.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fungal diseases, including honey fungus (rarely), and Phytophthora root rot, in wet conditions