Erica vagans aka Cornish Heath

Taxonomy

Erica vagans, also known as the Cornish heath or wandering heath, is a small, spreading, evergreen shrub native to Ireland, Cornwall, western France, and Spain. With an open habit and reaching a height of about 30-45cm, this vigorous heather features linear mid-green leaves. During summer and autumn, it produces long sprays of large, bell-shaped, deep rose-pink flowers. The Latin specific epithet vagans translates to "wandering," indicating its widely distributed nature. As a houseplant, the rare Wandering Heath requires regular watering and thrives in long-lasting, direct light, preferably within one foot of a window. It prefers well-draining soil to ensure healthy growth.

Common names

Cornish Heath, Erica, Heath

How to care for Cornish Heath

Water

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

Soil

Cornish Heath 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.

Lighting

Cornish Heath thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Heath.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Region of origin

Cornish Heath’s native range is Western Europe in Britain, France and N. Spain.


More info:
Wikipedia