Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Erica erigena or Irish heath

The genus Erica, family Ericaceae, comprises 700 species of shrubs native to Africa, Europe and the Mediterranean region. Some species are: Erica arborea, Erica multiflora, Erica hyemalis, Erica gracillis, Erica arborea, Erica umbellata.

Common name: Irish heath. This species is native to western mediterranean.

Erica erigena is a compact evergreen shrub that reaches 120 cm (3.93 feet) in height. The fine needle-shaped leaves are dark green. The showy inflorescences are spikes covered with fragrant pink flowers. It blooms in winter and early spring.

Irish heath is used in flowerbeds, borders, as an isolated specimen, in bushy groups and in pots for patios and terraces.

Erica erigena prefers full sun exposure but also grows in light shade. It resists light frosts.

The soil can be normal garden soil with plenty of organic matter, a little peat and coarse sand to improve drainage. Repot from the pot every 2 years to renew the substrate.

Water regularly so that the substrate always maintains a little moisture; never flood.

Fertilize monthly in spring with mineral fertilizer and add organic matter in autumn.

Prune after flowering to maintain a compact shape.

Irish heath does not usually present serious problems with pests and diseases.

Erica erigena is propagated by cuttings of semi-woody wood at the end of summer.

Images of the shrub Erica erigena or Irish heath