Heather

Heather Overview

Commonly known as heather, the perennial, evergreen shrub (Calluna vulgaris) has hundreds of cultivars. It naturally occurs in a range of moorland, bog, and heathland habitats around the world. In New Zealand, it is considered as an unwanted organism and a ban is in place for its sale and propagation. Similarly, in Australia, Calluna is on the alert list for eradication. The plant grows to between 40-70 cm tall, producing many bell-shaped flowers in late summer. Leaves and small and scale-like measuring 2-3 mm in length. It tends to dominate heath and moorland habitats, can handle grazing and regenerates effectively following fires. Also known as Heather or Ling, it prefers growing in well-drained acidic soil in full sun, but it will tolerate neutral soil and partial shade. It flowers on the previous years growth, so prune immediately after flowering to maintain a neat habit and still enjoy flowers the next year.