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Shrubs, Vines, & Herbs
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HeatherErica persoluta
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Bursting forth in springtime, the beautiful Erica persoluta blooms with upright plumes covered with
countless blossoms. You may notice the slight fragrance of the variety of heather which people find quite refreshing.
Erica is primarily grown for use as a blooming houseplant and its blooms last approximately 2 to 4 weeks.
Once dried, the plant retains its pretty pink color, and the plumes can be cut off for use in arrangements. Some
people even keep the dried plant in the pot as a dried blooming plant.
No one knows exactly where Erica persoluta originated, but it is believed to be somewhere in South Africa.
The Erica persoluta (spring heather) is actually a heath but it has mistakenly been called a heather ever since
its first commercial introduction. Technically, Callunas are heather and Ericas are heath.
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1. Basic Cultural Tips
light Bright to full sun
fertilizer None while blooming. After the blooming period, only
light feeding is required with a balanced plant food.
soil Acidic peat moss and sand. Must be well-drained.
temp. 28½-80½ degrees Fahrenheit. Heather prefers cooler temperatures, but is not freeze tolerant.
watering Keep constantly moist (not wet or dry). It is not drought tolerant.
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Erica persoluta's blooming period is from March through early April.
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2. After the Bloom has Dried, for Mild Climtes
(non-freezing, light frosts)
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After blooming, you can do one of two things:
1. Allow the plant to dry completely. It will retain its pink color and make a nice dry flower. Plumes can be cut
off and used in dry arrangements.
2. After the blooms fade, you can plant the heather in the ground in a full sun area. Provide acidic soil and
combine with peat moss and sand. Cut the plant back every year as deeply as possible without cutting into
leafless wood. If your water is neutral or alkaline, you will periodically have to feed your plant with iron sulfate
to keep the ph acidic. In November, quit feeding altogether. You should see blooms in March. In warmer
climates where temperatures reach above 80 degrees during the day, you should plant in a lightly shaded area
and possibly mist your heath on hot days for success.
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Our heather is grown primarily to be enjoyed indoors as a potted blooming plant. Any success
you have with it in the garden should be considered secondary value achieved through your skill as a horticulturist.
Heaths can be rather tricky in the garden, so be forewarned.
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