Calluna vulgaris
heather
C. vulgaris has narrow, linear, small, evergreen leaves. Spikes of urn-shaped pink or pale purple flowers which are either single or double are borne from mid-summer to autumn. Plants reach around 60cm in height. Many cultivars have been both selected and bred
Other common names
basambassum
see morebeesom
besom
ling
Scotch heather
Scots heather
Scottish heather
white heather
Synonyms
Erica vulgarisCalluna erica
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | Purple | Green | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Calluna are low-growing or dwarf evergreen shrubs with stems clothed in tiny overlapping leaves, and terminal, spike-like racemes of small, 4-petalled flowers with coloured calyces
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- N America, N Eurasia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well-drained acidic soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed in spring, or propagate by softwood cuttings, division or layering in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Rock garden
- Coastal
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
Pruning group 10. Shear off old flowering stems after flowering
Pests
Generally pest free
Diseases
May be subject to fungal diseases and root diseases, especially in warmer locations
Get involved
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