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Features
Forms a mat of dark green, evergreen foliage which has hints of bronze in winter. Bells of pretty pink flowers are held aloft from midwinter through to the end of spring.
What to use it for
Great for rock gardens, edging beds or borders and growing on slopes. Makes excellent evergreen ground cover. Can also be grown in containers.
How to look after it
This is a very low maintenance plant, only requiring trimming (see ‘how to prune it’ below).
How to prune it
In late spring, when the last of the flowers are fading, prune the stems back to remove most, but not all, of the previous year’s growth (new growth is much less likely to come from older wood).
It’s best to prune Erica carnea plants every year to keep them tidy, compact and free flowering.
Once the plant becomes straggly it should be replaced (or propagated from, then replaced) as renovation pruning isn’t possible.
How to propagate it
Take 5cm long semi-ripe cuttings from late summer to autumn, preferably from non-flowering shoots, and remove the leaves from the bottom third to reduce the risk of rotting. The top of the cutting should be pinched out. Place in a cold frame (for 4 to 6 months) or keep them warm in a propagator (or cover with a clear plastic bag) at between 15 and 21°C. Spray with a suitable fungicide and ventilate (lift the cover) daily as heather cuttings are prone to rot.
Plants can also be propagated by layering in spring; either simple layering or dropping.
Common problems
Phytophthera root disease can be a problem, as can lichen. Rabbits also find heathers a tasty snack!
Other useful information
This cultivar has been given the Award of Garden Merit by the RHS.
The genus name Erica derives from the Latin for a heath or moor (where Erica plants natively grow). The species name carnea means flesh-coloured and refers to the pink colour of Erica carnea flowers.
Heather features widely in superstitions, particularly white heather which is said to bring good luck.
