St. Dabeoc's Heath
daboecia cantabrica
Also known as: ["St. Dabeoc's Heath Heather","Irish Heath"]
Overview
A small evergreen shrub native to Ireland and northwestern Spain, known for its delicate pink or white flowers and needle-like leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Daboecia |
| Botanical Name: | Daboecia cantabrica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: raised beds or rock gardens in temperate regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic, peat-rich soil with added sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun; place in filtered light during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, acidic, peat-based soil
pH: Acidic (pH 4.5–6.0).
Ensure good drainage; maintain acidity; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in cooler climates.
Protect from frost; shield from intense heat; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; stop in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; softwood cuttings taken in early summer root readily.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early summer (late spring) for stem cuttings; early spring for division.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, peat-based medium, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim back straggly stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead growth; shape lightly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, sand, or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch (heat), or leaf drop (cold); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn brown; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Provide winter protection (mulch, frost cloth); avoid planting in exposed, windy areas; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity (mulch, misting); water deeply during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during spring-summer; avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDaboecia cantabrica is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDaboecia cantabrica is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDaboecia cantabrica is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Daboecia cantabrica toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Daboecia cantabrica?
A: It thrives in acidic, well-drained soil with partial shade and moderate moisture.
Q: Does Daboecia cantabrica attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
