Frequently asked questions
Heath, heather or erica – which is correct?
THERE is confusion between heaths (Erica) and heathers (Calluna), with many using the two common names interchangeably as they are uncertain which is right. Fortunately, both groups enjoy the same general features and grow in similar conditions so this rarely causes problems.
Erica is the scientific name for the plants also known as heaths, although erica has increasingly been used as a common name. Calluna is the scientific name for the plants also known as heathers, but calluna is very rarely used as a common name. However, heather is sometimes used as a common name for both groups of plants.
Scientifically speaking, the difference between the two is that in heaths (Erica) the petals carry the colour while in heathers (Calluna) it is the calyx (the persistent bud scales) that are coloured.
Can I grow ericas in pots?
ERICAS are excellent plants to grow in containers – as long as the plants get at least six hours of sun per day, and preferably more. If you only have very limited space they are especially good because of the huge range available.
The one key point is this: be sure to fill your containers with potting soil suitable for acid-loving plants such as azaleas.
How can I rejuvenate straggly ericas?
FIRST, what not to do. Do not simply cut the plants back to the base and wait for them to grow new shoots as they will not.
Instead, start as if you were propagating the plants by mounding. Cover the crown of your overgrown heather with 2in (5cm) of lime-free potting soil. Being covered with potting soil stimulates new roots and new shoots.
When the new shoots start to appear at the base, snip off all the old straggly ones with pruners, allowing the new growth plenty of light in which to develop.