Photo of Erica carnea 'December Red' flower by Forestfarm

Photo by Forestfarm

Used with permission, all rights reserved

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Erica carnea 'December Red'

Also Known As

  • December Red Spring Heath

Plant type

perennial, groundcover

size

  • H: 12"
  • W: 6"-9"

planting zones

  • 6a-8b

Erica carnea 'December Red' plant details

Erica carnea 'December Red' is a broadleaf evergreen perennial groundcover with green foliage. In winter pink and red flowers emerge. Attracts butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun and regular water. Does well in acidic and gritty soil. A good option if you're seeking something for erosion control.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Erica carnea 'December Red'

Plant type: perennial groundcover
Plant family: ericaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 6 IN - 9 IN - wide, 12 IN tall
Flowers: pink and red blooms in winter
Uses: container plant, cutting garden, rock garden, winter interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Erica carnea 'December Red'

USDA Zones: 6a - 8b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular
Resistant to: deer, erosion
Soil needs: acidic and gritty

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

From December into Feb (a nice time to have anything in bloom!), this vigorous, spreading 6-9" mat produces its deep rose-pink flowers. S/M/Acid

Gardening facts about Erica carnea 'December Red' plant

How to Grow Erica carnea 'December Red'

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun
  • Water Needs

    • regular
  • Soil Needs

    • acidic
    • gritty
  • Special Situation

    • erosion control

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
  • Flower Color

    • pink
    • red
  • Wildlife

    • butterflies
    • deer resistant
  • Flower Season

    • winter
  • Foliage Season

    • evergreen

See other plant types of Erica for your garden

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Plant Type

Shrub

Zones

9a-10b

Size

Height: 2'-3'

Width: 3'

  • sun
  • occasional
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Plant Type

Shrub

Zones

9b-12

Size

Height: 2'-6'

Width: 2'-6'

  • sun
  • occasional - drought tolerant
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aka Outeniqua Heath

Plant Type

Shrub

Zones

9a-11

Size

Height: 8'-10'

Width: 2'-3'

  • sun
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aka Tree Heath

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Zones

7a-10b

Size

Height: 6'-12'

Width: 6'-10'

  • sun - dappled shade
  • occasional - drought tolerant
  • dry in summer
Photo of Erica arborea flower by Jean Tosti
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aka Pink Cloud Spring Heath

Plant Type

Shrub

Zones

5a-9b

Size

Height: 4"-6"

Width: 18"-24"

  • sun
  • regular
Photo of Erica carnea 'Pink Cloud' flower by Kristine Paulus
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