Heather plants for acidic soil
Heathers are low-growing, hardy evergreen perennial shrubs, which are the dominant plants on most moorlands and heathlands in Europe. They are acid-loving plants succeeding in open, exposed locations and producing flowers in colours spanning white, through to pink and a wide range of purples and reds. There are two varieties - Calluna and Erica. Both have broadly the same form and growth habit but with subtle differences. Calluna plants have flat, scale-like foliage like this Calluna vulgaris ‘Silver Queen’, whereas Erica plants have narrow, needle-like leaves held in whorls as displayed on Erica carnea ‘Vivellii’. Both are brilliant for bringing a natural feel and splash of colour to your garden. Heathers are best planted deeply in 'waves' of 5-7 of each variety. All varieties of heather prefer an open, sunny spot but will also grow well in partial shade. Plant them into an acidic soil rich in organic matter and mulch around the base of the plants once a year.