Calluna aka Heather

Calluna vulgaris is a low-growing evergreen shrub that typically reaches 20-60 cm (8-24 inches) in height, with exceptional specimens occasionally growing up to 1 meter tall. The plant spreads to approximately 75 cm (30 inches) wide, forming dense, rounded mounds. Growth rate is moderate, and with proper care the plant develops a compact, spreading form perfect for ground cover, rock gardens, and heathland landscaping.

Calluna vulgaris is native to Europe, Iceland, the Faroe Islands, the Azores, Morocco, and parts of Asia Minor including Turkey. It grows naturally throughout the British Isles, Scandinavia, Central Europe, and Mediterranean regions extending to Northwest Morocco. The plant dominates heathlands, moorlands, and acidic environments across its native range, thriving on thin peaty soils over granite, in acidic pine and oak woodlands, and on mountain slopes where it creates the iconic purple landscapes.

Calluna vulgaris is exceptionally cold-hardy, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 4-7, which means it can withstand winter temperatures as low as -34°C (-30°F). The plant actually requires a period of winter cold for healthy growth and flowering. It tolerates maritime climates, wind exposure, and winter wetness remarkably well, making it ideal for exposed coastal and mountain environments where many other plants struggle.

Calluna vulgaris is highly adaptable to varying humidity levels and thrives in the naturally humid conditions of British moorlands and coastal heathlands. It tolerates maritime exposure and winter wetness well, though it prefers good air circulation around the foliage. The plant does not require high humidity and actually performs well in exposed, windy sites with variable moisture in the air, as long as soil drainage is adequate.

Calluna vulgaris requires little to no fertilizer and actually prefers nutrient-poor soils. The plant evolved on impoverished moorland soils and thrives in low-nutrient conditions. Over-fertilizing can cause excessive soft growth that is prone to disease and may reduce flowering. If growing in containers with ericaceous compost, the organic matter provides sufficient nutrition.

Calluna vulgaris produces abundant small, urn-shaped flowers from July through November, with peak bloom typically occurring in August and September. The flowers range in color from pink and purple to rosy-pink and occasionally white, depending on the cultivar. These nectar-rich blooms are highly attractive to pollinators—particularly bees, butterflies, and moths—and provide a vital food source in late summer and autumn when few other flowers are available. With over 700 cultivars available, you can select varieties that flower at different times throughout this extended season for continuous color.

Over 700-1,000 cultivars of Calluna vulgaris have been developed, offering a remarkable range of flower colors, foliage types, and blooming periods. Notable selections include 'Firefly', 'Robert Chapman', and 'Wickwar Flame', which display attractive reddish winter foliage. Other popular varieties include 'Golden Wonder' (golden foliage), the Garden Girls Series, and various double-flowered cultivars. By selecting different cultivars with staggered bloom times from July to November, you can create extended seasonal interest. Many varieties also offer colorful foliage year-round, transitioning through bronze, gold, and red tones in winter.

Calluna vulgaris is exclusively an outdoor plant, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 4-7 where it can withstand winter temperatures to -34°C (-30°F). It grows best in full sun locations with well-drained, acidic soil (pH 4.5-6.5). The plant is ideal for rock gardens, heather gardens, moorland-style landscapes, and as ground cover on slopes. It tolerates exposed, windy sites and maritime conditions exceptionally well. In areas with alkaline soil, heather can be grown successfully in raised beds or containers filled with ericaceous (acidic) compost.

Calluna vulgaris benefits from annual pruning to maintain compact growth and promote abundant flowering. Prune after flowering is complete in late autumn or early spring before new growth begins. Use shears to trim off the old flowering stems, cutting back to just below the spent flowers but avoiding cutting into old woody growth. This light shearing encourages bushy new growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy or bare at the base. Avoid hard pruning into old wood as heather does not regenerate well from very old stems.

Calluna vulgaris can be propagated by several methods. Seeds should be surface-sown and may benefit from cold stratification. Semi-ripe cuttings taken from July to November with a heel of older wood root readily and are the most reliable method for propagating specific cultivars. Layering in autumn is also successful—simply peg low branches to the soil and they will root where they touch the ground. Division in spring works for established clumps that have been replanted deeply. Cuttings and layering preserve the characteristics of named varieties, while seed-grown plants may vary.

Calluna vulgaris is generally hardy and pest-resistant when grown in appropriate conditions. The most common problem is root rot caused by poor drainage or overly alkaline soil, which can be prevented by ensuring acidic, well-drained growing conditions. Heather beetle can occasionally damage foliage, and fungal diseases may occur in humid, poorly ventilated conditions or when plants are stressed. The best prevention is proper siting with good air circulation, acidic soil, and avoiding overwatering. Plants growing in their preferred sunny, well-drained, acidic conditions typically remain healthy with minimal pest or disease issues.

Calluna vulgaris is primarily pollinated by insects, particularly bees. Honey bees, short-tongued and long-tongued bumblebees, and many solitary bee species are the most efficient pollinators, visiting the abundant nectar-rich flowers throughout the long blooming season from July to November. Butterflies, moths, and flies also contribute to pollination. The flowers provide crucial late-season nectar and pollen when few other sources are available, making heather ecologically vital for pollinator populations. This pollinator support is one reason heathlands are considered important conservation habitats.

Calluna vulgaris has limited edibility, rated 2 out of 5 by PFAF. The flowering shoots can be used to make a pleasant tea with mild flavor. Historically, the flowers and young shoots were used as a substitute for hops in brewing beer, and a traditional heather ale or mead was brewed from the flowers in Scotland and other parts of Britain. While not a major food plant, the tea is safe to consume and has been used traditionally both for flavor and for its mild medicinal properties as a diuretic and urinary antiseptic.

Calluna vulgaris has been used in traditional herbal medicine, with a medicinal rating of 2 out of 5 by PFAF. The flowering shoots possess antiseptic, astringent, diuretic, and expectorant properties. Traditionally, heather has been used to treat urinary tract infections and kidney problems due to its antiseptic and diuretic effects. It has also been employed for rheumatism, arthritis, coughs, and colds. The plant is featured in Bach flower remedies for emotional healing. While historically valued, it should be noted that modern medical evidence for efficacy is limited, and serious conditions should be treated by qualified healthcare professionals.

Calluna vulgaris has exceptional utility for non-food and non-medicinal purposes, earning the maximum rating of 5 out of 5 from PFAF. The branches have been used for centuries in thatching, mattress and pillow stuffing, insulation, basketry, rope-making, and broom-making (hence the genus name meaning "to cleanse"). The plant provides yellow dye and tannins for leather processing. The woody rootstock has been carved into musical instruments and decorative items. Heather also serves as excellent fuel, ground cover for erosion control, and low hedging. Ecologically, it supports wildlife including bees, butterflies, moths, and provides heather honey production—a prized honey variety with distinctive flavor.

Heather requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Heather should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Heather loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Heather prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

During the cold period, it is common for Heather to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.