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Erica tetralix 'Darleyensis'
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

cross-leaved heath 'Darleyensis'

A compact evergreen shrub, to around 20cm high, with small, slightly hairy grey-green leaves in whorls of four around slender stems. Clusters of pale rose-pink flowers are produced at the tips of the stems from midsummer to early autumn

Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Pink Green Grey Silver
Autumn Pink Green Grey Silver
Winter Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Ericaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
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

Name status

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a sunny spot in moist, acidic soil. See Hardy heathers for more detailed advice

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in mid- or late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Rock garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pruning group 10, after flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to fungal diseases, including Phytophthora root rot

Get involved

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