Winter Heath (Erica carnea)

Sun Needs:

• Full sun to partial shade
• Best flowering in full sun
• Tolerates light shade, especially in warmer climates

Bloom Time:

• Late winter to early spring
• Bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white
• Long-lasting blooms often persist into early summer

Size:

Height: 6 to 12 inches
Width: 12 to 24 inches

Attributes:

• Evergreen with fine, needle-like foliage
• Early and long-lasting bloom period
• Cold-hardy and tolerant of snow cover
• Excellent groundcover for acidic soils
• Attracts early-season pollinators
• Works well in rock gardens, slopes, and borders

Care Tips:

• Requires well-drained, acidic soil (pH 4.5–6.0)
• Avoid heavy clay or alkaline soils
• Water regularly during establishment
• Mulch with pine needles or bark to maintain soil acidity
• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense growth

Pest Watch:

• Generally pest- and disease-resistant
• Watch for root rot in poorly drained soils
• Occasionally affected by spider mites or aphids