Heather
calluna vulgaris
Also known as: ["Scotch Heather","Ling"]
Overview
A low-growing evergreen shrub native to Europe, known for its profusion of small, bell-shaped flowers and needle-like leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Calluna |
| Botanical Name: | Calluna vulgaris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Acidic, sandy, or loamy soil with good drainage; peat-based mixes work well for containers.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, immediately after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun by providing afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching; for indoor placement, ensure bright light near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
acidic, well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Acidic (pH 4.5–5.5).
Use acidic soil mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C); tolerates cooler climates but may struggle in extreme heat.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use an acid-loving plant fertilizer for best results; stop fertilizing when buds form to encourage blooming.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from new growth in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with added perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; plants may take a full growing season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, peat-based medium, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of old stems; light shaping of new growth; avoid cutting into old wood as Calluna rarely re-sprouts from it.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove old or dead wood; best done after flowering to avoid cutting off next year's buds.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Prune after flowering; remove dead or crossing branches; sterilize tools between cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining soil health and plant vigor.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; water after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a month.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, pine bark, or sand to improve drainage and acidity; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; root rot or leaf drop in cold, waterlogged conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures combined with wet soil can lead to root damage and fungal infections; plants may become dormant or die back in severe cold.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; provide winter protection with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold months; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; plants may drop buds or leaves to conserve energy.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency during heatwaves; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCalluna vulgaris is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk of poisoning when ingested in small amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCalluna vulgaris is not considered toxic to dogs. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCalluna vulgaris, commonly known as heather, is not considered toxic to humans. It is often used in culinary applications and as an ornamental plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Calluna vulgaris be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Heather prefers moist but well-drained acidic soil.
Q: Does Calluna vulgaris attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Can Calluna vulgaris be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, provided the soil is acidic and well-drained, and the container has adequate drainage holes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| 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
