Mountain Pink
phyllodoce empetriformis
Also known as: ["Dwarf Pink","Mountain Heather"]
Overview
A low-growing evergreen shrub with small pink flowers, native to the Pacific Northwest.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Phyllodoce |
| Botanical Name: | Phyllodoce empetriformis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or shaded woodland settings
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–15°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic soil mix; peat-based with sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light; 4–6 hours of filtered sunlight daily; adjust for intensity in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in a spot with dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
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, sandy loam
pH: Acidic, pH 5.0–6.0.
Use acidic soil mix; ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 50–65°F (10–18°C); prefers cooler conditions, especially in winter.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; softwood cuttings root more readily.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand; keep slightly moist.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap or dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above a leaf node, thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead growth, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out circling roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; may prefer slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root boundness, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, 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 is removed 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 good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning leaf edges in excessive heat; stunted growth or yellowing in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or browning; susceptible to frost damage below 28°F (-2°C).
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, avoid winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring–summer), avoid in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhyllodoce empetriformis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPhyllodoce empetriformis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPhyllodoce empetriformis is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It has no reported adverse physiological effects when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Phyllodoce empetriformis require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full shade, especially in hotter climates.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Is it suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in well-drained, rocky soils typical of rock gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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