Erica scoparia
besom heath
A bushy, upright shrub or small tree, with evergreen, needle-like, dark green leaves to around 2m (6.5ft) in height. In late spring and early summer, tiny, bell-shaped, green-brown flowers are borne in profusion at the stem ends. Releases clouds of pollen when in full bloom.
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Brown | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Brown | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Erica can be prostrate or erect, evergreen shrubs with fine, needle-like leaves in whorls, and racemes or panicles of small, bell-shaped or tubular flowers
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well-drained, moderately fertile to poor soil in full sun. See also Hardy heathers cultivation.
Propagation
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in mid-to late autumn and by layering.
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
- Hedging and screens
Pruning
See pruning group 8
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to fungal diseases, including honey fungus (rarely), and Phytophthora root rot, in wet conditions
Get involved
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