Heath flowers grow in clusters among the needle-like foliage of the stalks.
Heath shrub species originated in Europe, Africa and Asia. The 700 species within the genus include low-growing shrubs and large shrubs called heath trees. Heath plants are in the genus Erica and the plant family Ericaceae. Climate conditions, growing conditions and soil requirements vary depending on the species and variety. Does this Spark an idea?
Characteristics
Heath shrubs are evergreens that keep their foliage year-round. The needle-like leaves vary in color depending on the season and the variety or cultivar. Foliage colors include green, gray-green, silver, bronze, orange, yellow and gold. Cold weather brings out the best in heath shrubs with deeper intensity in foliage color. Small flowers bloom along stalks in shades of pink, purple, red, orange and white. The flowers bloom between mid-winter and early summer depending on the climate and variety.
Climate and Hardiness
Most heath shrubs grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 through 10. Varieties native to Europe and Northern Asia tend to grow better in the cooler zones of the range while species native to Africa are more heat-tolerant and susceptible to frosts. One cold hardy European species, Erica carnea, grows well in chilly zones 5 through 7 and flowers in late winter, often under snow. Ask your local garden center for a heath shrub that grows well in your area.
Soil and Growing Conditions
Heath grows best in acidic soil. This hardy shrub grows well in nutritionally poor, rocky soil. It grows well in coastal areas and can tolerate salt in the soil and in the air. Plant heath in a sunny spot for best foliage color. Plants grow in full sun or part shade. In areas that have clay soil or poor drainage, plant heath in raised beds. Amend the soil with leaf mold and peat moss before planting to improve drainage and soil consistency.
In the Landscape
Height and spread varies widely within this large genus of plants. Erica carnea grows 5 to 12 inches tall with a spread of 5 to 15 inches wide. In contrast, Erica arborea, also called tree heath, grows 8 to 12 feet tall with a spread of 4 to 8 feet. Many heath plants grow 2 to 4 feet tall. Plant low-growing varieties as a ground cover in a sunny area. Mid-size heath shrubs add color to shrub beds and areas around buildings. Plant large heath shrubs as a hedge or along a border area. Heath is ideal for large rock gardens and windy bluffs.
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