Heath and Heather

Erica x darleyensis (Darley Dale Heath):  Includes many hybrids of Erica Carnea and Erica Erigena. A taller growing shrub than Erica Carnea and more bushy, it is useful for adding winter color at greater heights. It is loved for its early bloom and evergreen presence and forms bristling splashes of pink, white, purple, or red blooms in the landscape, which are at their best with dwarf evergreens, conifers, and mixed plantings of heathers. Most varieties display needle-like mid-green foliage with pink, cream, or red, young growth in late spring and bronzy foliage in the winter. Buds form in late summer or early fall, and some cultivars bloom as early as late September, often lasting until April. Slightly acid to alkaline soils. Zone 5 and warmer.

Erica cinerea (Bell Heather):  Attractive and spectacular in bloom with some of the most eye-catching flowers of all heathers. Evergreen shrubs forming mounding, spreading, low bushes, 6-18 in tall (15-45 cm) that burst into vivid colors as they get covered with hundreds of bell-shaped flowers from late spring to early fall (Jun-Oct). Colors range from white to almost black, while foliage varies from gold to dark green. They need annual pruning, or they become straggly. Prune below the flowers on the stems after flowering in fall or early spring. Prefers well-drained acid soil. Zone 5 and warmer.

Calluna vulgaris (Common Heather or Ling):  Among the hardiest and most varied of all hardy heathers. The Royal Horticultural Society currently lists over 800 cultivars of this species. Callunas offer various sizes (from small mounds to 3 feet (90 cm) shrubs). Racemes of rose pink to purplish pink, single or double flowers, appear in mid to late summer. Foliage may be highly dramatic, turning from gray or green to attractive glowing shades of orange and red in fall and winter. Some varieties display their showy new growth for months before flowering for additional several months. Callunas flower best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Callunas hate lime but thrive in acid soil. Callunas need annual pruning, or they become straggly. Prune below the flowers on the stems after flowering in fall or early spring. Zone 4 and warmer. Some varieties grow well in Zone 3 areas.

Each of these species and cultivars offers something unique in terms of flower color, foliage color, and bloom time, which can make for a diverse and interesting planting when several are used together.

Garden Design with Heath and Heather

Heath and heather can make a significant impact in the landscape due to their vibrant colors, varying heights, and different bloom times. They are versatile plants that can be utilized in several garden styles, from a traditional cottage garden to a contemporary landscape design. Here are a few ways you can incorporate them into your garden design:

Rock Gardens and Slopes: Both heath and heather are excellent for planting in rock gardens or on slopes. Their low-growing nature, combined with their ability to tolerate poor, sandy, or rocky soil conditions makes them an excellent choice for these locations. They can also help prevent soil erosion on slopes.

Ground Cover: These plants are effective as a ground cover due to their dense, spreading growth habit. Plant them en masse to cover large areas, which can help crowd out weeds and reduce the amount of bare soil exposed to erosion.

Borders and Edges: Heath and heather are excellent for defining the edges of a border or pathway, particularly lower-growing varieties. Their dense growth and colorful flowers can provide a beautiful, soft edge.

Mixed Beds: Mix them with other acid-loving plants like rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias for a colorful display throughout the year.

Containers: Smaller varieties can be grown in containers, either alone or mixed with other plants that have similar growing requirements.

Wildlife Garden: Both plants are known to attract pollinators, so they can be an excellent addition to a wildlife or pollinator garden.

When planting, group several plants of the same variety together to create a swath of color. Also, try to arrange the plants so that there are always some in bloom at any given time, to ensure year-round interest. Remember, these plants prefer well-drained, acidic soil and plenty of sun. They are relatively low maintenance but will benefit from occasional pruning to keep them compact and encourage dense growth.

Growing Tips

Growing Heath and Heather can be a rewarding gardening experience, especially given their vibrant colors and year-round interest. Here are some guidelines on how to grow these plants:

Location: Both Heath (Erica) and Heather (Calluna) need at least six hours of sun a day. Full sun is better as the foliage colors intensify when fully exposed. Too much shade makes the plants leggy and affects the brilliance of their color. However, they may benefit from afternoon shade in hot, dry climates.

Soil: They prefer well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. If your soil is neutral or alkaline, you can lower the pH by adding sulfur or organic matter such as peat moss or pine needles. Poor, sandy, or rocky soils are usually fine as long as they are well-drained.

Planting: Heath and Heather may be planted in the fall or early spring. Space your plants as far apart as their mature width and at least two feet. (60 cm) away from other shrubs to ensure good air circulation. This is important for good foliage growth and color. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Place the plant in the hole and backfill it with soil, firming gently around the base. Water thoroughly after planting.

Watering: While drought tolerant once established, it’s important to water regularly during their first year to help them get established. After that, only water during extended periods of dry weather.

Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots from extreme temperatures. Pine bark or pine needles can also help acidify the soil.

Pruning: Heath and Heather require minimal pruning.

• Summer bloomers: Pruning is essential and should occur in late fall or early spring below the old flowers on the branch. Round and shape the plant.
• Winter bloomers: Shear lightly in spring, immediately after blooming. If your plants die out in the center, shearing will keep them alive and growing.

Feeding: They generally do not require much fertilizer, but if your soil is very poor, you can apply a slow-release, acidifying fertilizer in the spring.

Pests and Diseases: These plants are generally pest and disease-resistant, but root rot can occur in poorly drained soils.

Propagating: Heath and Heather can be propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or early fall.

With the right conditions and care, Heath and Heather can provide beautiful, low-maintenance color in your garden for many years.