Erica carnea [pink]

Also Known As

Erica carnea 'Pink'
Pink Flowering Winter Heath

Plant type

shrub, groundcover

size

H: 12"
W: 36"

planting zones

5a-8b

Erica carnea [pink] plant details

Erica carnea [pink] is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen groundcover shrub with green foliage. In spring and winter pink flowers emerge. Features grassy texture. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and regular - occasional water. Does well in average, gritty and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Erica carnea [pink]

Plant type: groundcover shrub
Plant family: ericaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 36 IN wide, 12 IN tall
Flowers: pink blooms in spring and winter
Uses: edging plant, rock garden, winter interest, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Erica carnea [pink]

USDA Zones: 5a - 8b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: regular - occasional

Soil needs: average, gritty and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Winter Heath, also often called Heather, is a large group of plants which often grow in groundcover form. Erica carnea 'Pink' is of particular interest to landscapes because it blooms starting in late winter and continues to bloom through the spring, blooming at a time when almost no other plants look good. It is a useful addition to ensure landscapes look exciting year round.

The foliage is evergreen and plants typically grow to 1-2 feet tall. The leaves are small and needle-like in appearance, providing ample texture for planting next to large leaved perennials. Despite their appearance, the leaves are actually fairly soft and aren't painful to work with like some similar looking plants.

Besides use as a general groundcover or border planting, Pink Winter Heath is a fantastic choice for rock gardens as it will grow down over rocks in curtains. Plus, being planted high gives a much better view of the unique flowers.

Propagating Erica carnea Winter Heath

Best propagated in winter as hardwood cuttings of new growth.

Pruning and Care for Erica carnea Winter Heath

Plants are best pruned back in late spring or early summer. Flower buds develop starting in late spring and persist until they bloom in winter, so you want to prune early enough in summer that you don't reduce flowering. Plants rarely need pruned unless they grow into unwanted areas or you want to keep them shorter. Your plants will look best with occasional light pruning as opposed to infrequent but heavy pruning.