PlantFiles: Scotch Heath, Winter Heath
Erica carnea

The species, Erica carnea, grows as a prostrate shrubby perennial that blooms in the winter here in the northern border of Zone 7a. This Heath is relatively care-free and grows in a sprawling manner, sending aerial roots as it grows outward. Since this Heath is quite low to the ground, it will air-layer itself. To keep the shrubby plant within a confined area, cut back once a year.

My planting receives abuse from cold northern winds and even tolerates accumulated snowfall, yet the Heath lives on! And the rewards of seeing small pink, nodding blooms in January is my first reminder that my garden lives on.

A small shrub from Western Europe, mainly occuring in the Great British Isles and France.

Has deep green, rolled, almost needle like leaves borne in 3s up the stem. Bears bell shaped, bright reddish purple, pink to pure white, honey scented flowers.

Flowers late June to early September.

Needs a well drained, acid soil in full sun, it's a native of dry, sandy heaths.

Protect from drying winds in winter while blooming. This variety tolerates higher soil alkalinity than other ericas. Foliage color varies with season and variety from green through yellow, orange, pink, red, purple.