Erica tetralix aka Bog Heather

Erica tetralix is a small evergreen shrub in the heath family, Ericaceae. Its common names include cross-leaved heath and bell heath. It grows wild in northern and western Europe, including Britain and Ireland. Its range includes Scandinavia and parts of western mainland Europe. This plant lives in temperate regions. In the wild, it grows in bogs, wet heathland and moors. It occurs less often on dry ground.

The shrub has a low, spreading form with bushy growth. Plants reach about 1 foot [0.3 metres] tall. Garden height and spread can reach 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. The RHS gives two to five years to reach full size. Its oblong leaves are dark grey-green, with pale undersides. Fine hairs fringe their edges. The leaves stay on the plant through winter. Pale pink flowers grow in uneven clusters from midsummer into early autumn. Each flower has an urn shape and a narrow, darker mouth. The blooms reach about 0.03 feet [0.009 metres] long.

Give this heath full sun and moist, acid soil. The RHS lists clay, loam and sand as suitable soil types. In gardens, the soil should hold moisture but drain well. Both sheltered and exposed sites suit it. East-, south- and west-facing sites are all listed. Its UK hardiness rating is H6. That rating covers winter lows from about −20 to −15°C. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 3–7. These ratings come from separate sources and use different scales.

Its small size suits beds, borders and rock gardens. It also fits pots, courtyards and informal gardens. The RHS lists coastal sites and wildlife gardens among its uses. Plants For A Future recommends it for ground cover and bog gardens. The foliage provides cover beyond the flowering season. Stems have uses in brooms and brushes. The plant can also yield a yellow dye. Take semi-ripe cuttings in mid- to late summer for propagation. The RHS places routine pruning after flowering. Plants For A Future suggests spring clipping to make ground cover denser.

The RHS describes this shrub as needing little upkeep. Pests seldom cause trouble, but fungal disease can affect it. Phytophthora root rot is one listed risk. Plants For A Future reports no known edible or medicinal uses. It also records no known hazards. That report does not establish that every plant part is safe to eat. The same source does not flag the species as weedy.