Bell heather - Erica cinerea (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Bell heather

Also known as: Grey heath, Purple heather

Bell heather (Erica cinerea) is a flowering evergreen shrub that is native to western and central Europe. It grows well in relatively dry, acidic soil and is often found in moors and heathlands. Bell heather is known as one of the top nectar-producing plants in the UK and is an important plant in the production of heather honey.

Scientific classification

Species

Bell heather (Erica cinerea)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

60 cm

Plant Height

80 cm

Spread

Green, Yellow, Bronze

Leaf Color

8 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink, Purple, Red

Flower Color

Green, White, Purple, Pink

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Images of Bell heather

Distribution of Bell heather

Distribution Map

Bell heather is primarily native to the temperate regions of western and southern Europe, as well as northwest Africa. Its cultivation has traversed beyond these native boundaries, introducing it to other territories such as the Australasian realm. As a cultivated species, bell heather garners appreciation in various parts of the world for its horticultural qualities.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Moors, heathland, coastal dune heath, dune slack, woodland

Culture

Garden Use

Bees and butterflies adore bell heather, so this flowering plant works well in pollinator and wildlife gardens. The foliage is evergreen and the showy blooms appear in summer and autumn. It's often used in more informal gardens, where it is grown freely in garden beds or wide, open areas. It can grow in the more scrubby or sandy soils found near heathlands or the coast.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Bell heather, including the following common varieties :

Bell heather 'Golden Hue'Bell heather 'Pentreath'Bell heather 'Cevennes'

Care Guide for Bell heather

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 25 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Bell heather thrives in its native habitat with sporadic rainfall, adapting to infrequent watering. It is drought-tolerant, requiring moisture balance, with watering every 1-2 weeks. Flourishing in well-draining soil, it avoids waterlogging during its active growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal health, bell heather needs balanced nutrition fertilizers every 4-6 weeks during active growth. Adjust amounts by season, using more in spring and less by late summer. Water before fertilizing to prevent root burn, and limit fertilization during winter dormancy.

Pruning: Bell heather, featuring vibrant purple flowers, thrives with annual early spring pruning. Trim woody stems by one-third to enhance growth and prevent pests. Post-bloom light pruning boosts next season's flowering. Regular pruning fosters better air circulation and light penetration, crucial for its vigor and aesthetic appeal.

Propagation: Bell heather is an evergreen shrub that prefers acidic soils and can be propagated from semi-ripe cuttings in late summer. Trim just below a leaf node, plant in a peat-perlite mix, and maintain humidity. Gradual acclimatization is essential before transplanting young plants outdoors.

Repotting: Bell heather is a low-growing shrub that should be repotted every 2-3 years in spring. Use a slightly larger pot for root growth and ensure moist soil and bright, indirect light post-repotting. A breathable pot supports healthy regrowth.

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Images of Bell heather

Distribution of Bell heather

Culture

Cultivars

Care Guide for Bell heather

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