About
A compact evergreen shrub, to around 20cm high, with small, slightly hairy grey-green leaves in whorls of four around slender stems. Clusters of salmon-coloured buds open to pink flowers at the tips of the stems from midsummer to early autumn.
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
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-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 height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
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-hardwood cuttings in mid- or late summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fungal diseases, including Phytophthora root rot