Pink Mountain Heather
phyllodoce caerulea
Also known as: ["Arctic Heather","Alpine Heather"]
Overview
A low-growing evergreen shrub native to alpine and arctic regions, known for its pink to lavender flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","cold hardy","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Phyllodoce |
| Botanical Name: | Phyllodoce caerulea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in cold climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−40–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"1–4"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic soil mix with peat, sand, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of sunlight per day, avoiding harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to outdoor light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on season.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak hours; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, acidic peat-based mix
pH: Acidic, ideally 5.0–6.0.
Use acidic soil mix; ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); tolerates cooler conditions but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heat sources; monitor for stress signs.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; softwood cuttings root most reliably.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (60–70°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when 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; ensure organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning edges in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf discoloration in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage; may lead to dieback in severe cases.
Solution: Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid placing near cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature flowering; may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
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; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhyllodoce caerulea is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion of this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPhyllodoce caerulea is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion of this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPhyllodoce caerulea is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Phyllodoce caerulea suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in rocky, well-drained soils typical of alpine environments.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, depending on the climate.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, as it is adapted to dry conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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