About
Erica tetralix, the cross-leaved heath, is a low, spreading, evergreen shrub to around 30 cm with dark, blue-grey-green leaves arranged in distinctive cross-like whorls of four. Clusters of small, pink, urn-shaped flowers are produced at the stem tips in summer. A charming and reliable heather for moist, acidic, boggy conditions.
About the genus
Erica, the heaths and heathers, are a large genus of evergreen shrubs with fine, needle-like leaves in whorls and racemes or panicles of small, bell-shaped or tubular flowers. They include compact, low-growing garden heathers and tall, tree-like species from the Mediterranean and South Africa.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
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, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a sunny spot in moist, acidic soil. See Hardy heathers for more detailed advice
PruningPruning group 10, after flowering
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in mid- or late summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fungal diseases, including Phytophthora root rot