Erica tetralix
cross-leaved heath
A low, spreading, evergreen shrub to about 30cm tall, with dark, grey-green oblong leaves, whitish beneath, fringed with hairs. Lopsided clusters of urn-shaped pale pink flowers to 9mm long with constricted darker mouths, are produced from midsummer to early autumn
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Pink | Grey Silver | ||
| Winter | Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- 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
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a sunny spot in moist, acidic soil. See Hardy heathers for more detailed advice
Propagation
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in mid- or late summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Low Maintenance
- 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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