Erica versicolor
colour-changing heath
An upright, evergreen shrub, to 3m tall, with very short, narrow leaves and small clusters of green-tipped, red, tubular flowers, 2-3cm long, produced mainly from autumn to early winter
Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green Red | Green | ||
| Winter | Green Red | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical 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
- Plant range
- S Africa (Cape)
How to grow
Cultivation
In very mild areas, grow in moist but well-drained, acidic soil in full sun in a very sheltered position. Elsewhere grow in a frost-free greenhouse or conservatory in lime-free potting compost with extra sharp sand, making sure the compost is kept moist
Propagation
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in mid- or late summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Patio and container plants
Pruning
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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