Broom Heath
erica scoparia
Also known as: ["Broom Heath Erica","Scrub Heath"]
Overview
A small evergreen shrub native to Western Europe, characterized by its dense, broom-like growth habit and small, needle-like leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Erica |
| Botanical Name: | Erica scoparia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: raised beds or slopes with good drainage, coastal gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic soil; mix of peat, sand, and loam.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, acidic soil with some organic matter
pH: Acidic (pH 4.5–6.0).
Ensure good drainage; maintain acidity; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Hardy to USDA zones 6–9; prefers 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates mild frosts.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly after pruning; avoid over-fertilizing; water before feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer; layering in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; early spring for layering.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%); warm temperatures (65–75°F); partial shade.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning; heading back to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant; encourage bushiness; remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; wilting or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Stunted growth; leaf drop; potential dieback of stems in severe cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from freezing winds; move potted plants to sheltered areas.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water before and after feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; avoid feeding in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicErica scoparia is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known toxic substances that would pose a risk to felines if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicErica scoparia is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or toxic compounds that would cause harm to canines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicErica scoparia, commonly known as Heath or Broom Heath, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Erica scoparia suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is well-suited to coastal conditions due to its tolerance of salt spray and sandy soils.
Q: How often should Erica scoparia be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in winter.
Q: Does Erica scoparia require pruning?
A: Light pruning after flowering can help maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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