Status:
valid
Authors:
Bolus
Source:
cmp
Year:
1887
Citation Micro:
J. Linn. Soc., Bot. 24: 182 (1887)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000671429
Common Names
- Erica aspalathifolia
- Rooibos Heath
- Rooibos Bell
Description
Erica aspalathifolia (also called 'Aspalathifolia Heath' and 'Aspalathifolia Bell Heather', among many other common names) is a small evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves and small, bell-shaped pink flowers. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is found in dry, rocky habitats.
Uses & Benefits
Erica aspalathifolia is used as an ornamental plant in gardens, and is also used for erosion control and as a ground cover. It has a low water requirement and is drought tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It is also used as a bee plant, providing nectar and pollen for bees.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Erica aspalathifolia var. bachmannii Bolus
Erica aspalathifolia var. aspalathifolia
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The Erica aspalathifolia flower is a small, tubular, white flower that grows in clusters. The seed is a small, dark brown, oval-shaped seed. The seedling is a small, green, oval-shaped seedling with a white tip.
Cultivation and Propagation
Erica aspalathifolia can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring or autumn in a well-drained, sandy soil. Cuttings should be taken in late summer or early autumn and rooted in a sandy soil. The plants should be grown in full sun or partial shade and should be protected from cold winds.
Where to Find Erica aspalathifolia
Erica aspalathifolia is native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.
Erica aspalathifolia FAQ
What is the scientific name of Erica aspalathifolia?
Erica aspalathifolia
What is the common name of Erica aspalathifolia?
Aspalathus heather
What is the natural habitat of Erica aspalathifolia?
Mountainous areas of Europe
Species in the Erica genus
Erica abbottii,
Erica abelii,
Erica abietina,
Erica accommodata,
Erica acuta,
Erica adnata,
Erica aestiva,
Erica affinis,
Erica agglutinans,
Erica aghillana,
Erica albens,
Erica albertyniae,
Erica albescens,
Erica albospicata,
Erica alexandri,
Erica alfredii,
Erica algida,
Erica alnea,
Erica alopecurus,
Erica alticola,
Erica altiphila,
Erica amalophylla,
Erica amatolensis,
Erica amicorum,
Erica amidae,
Erica amoena,
Erica amphigena,
Erica ampullacea,
Erica andreaei,
Erica andringitrensis,
Erica aneimena,
Erica anemodes,
Erica anguliger,
Erica angulosa,
Erica annalis,
Erica annectens,
Erica anomala,
Erica arachnocalyx,
Erica arborea,
Erica arborescens,
Erica arcuata,
Erica ardens,
Erica arenaria,
Erica areolata,
Erica argentea,
Erica argyraea,
Erica aristata,
Erica aristella,
Erica aristifolia,
Erica armandiana,
Species in the Ericaceae family