Calluna vulgaris aka Common Heather

Calluna vulgaris, also known as common heather, ling, or simply heather, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is the sole species in the genus Calluna and is found widely in Europe and Asia Minor. This low-growing plant species makes a perfect ground cover and is the dominant plant in most heathland and moorland in Europe. It is also found in some bog vegetation and acidic pine and oak woodland. Calluna is differentiated from Erica by its corolla and calyx each being in four parts instead of five. Heather is a hardy plant that tolerates cold and is easy to take care of. It is tolerant of grazing and regenerates following occasional burning. Heather is often managed in nature reserves and grouse moors by sheep or cattle grazing, and also by light burning. Additionally, this plant can be grown as a groundcover and is tolerant of poor soils. It is recommended to prune every spring to prevent bare stems. The name Calluna was probably derived from the Ancient Greek word Kallyno, which means "beautify, sweep clean", in reference to its traditional use in besoms. The specific epithet vulgaris is Latin for "common". Heather makes up a blanket on fields and moorlands and once it blooms in late summer, the sight is spectacular. Overall, Calluna Heather embodies all the features a novice gardener might be looking for: it's easy to care for, it's hardy, and it delights with its blooms.