Umbellate Heath (Erica umbellata)

Umbellate Heath

Erica umbellata

Dainty umbel blooms bring winter color to cool gardens. Evergreen dwarf shrub; common name: umbellate heath.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates cool coastal sunlight and mild summer heat
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Watering Allow top 2 cm of soil to dry between waterings; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -5°C; prefers cool temperatures between 10–20°C for optimal growth
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, needle-like evergreen leaves arranged in whorls of 3–4, dark green
  • Flower: Umbellate clusters of 4–8 bell-shaped pink to pale purple blooms, 3–5 mm long
  • Stem: Slender, woody stems with fine, downy young growth
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted acidic fertilizer once monthly. Use fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants to maintain soil pH levels

Coffee grounds compost tea:Use fully composted coffee grounds; dilute 1:25 with water for root drenching to support acidic soil conditions
Pruning
  • Trim spent flower heads after blooming to encourage compact new growth
  • Thin overcrowded stems in early spring to improve airflow and light penetration
  • Remove dead wood annually to maintain a neat, healthy shrub shape
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental rockery and container plant; coastal garden groundcover