Status:
valid
Authors:
Salisb.
Source:
cmp
Year:
1802
Citation Micro:
Trans. Linn. Soc. London 6: 397 (1802)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000671520
Common Names
- Erica blenna
- Blenna Heath
- Blenna Heather
Synonyms
- Pachysa aristata G.Don [valid]
- Pachysa vernix (Andrews) D.Don [valid]
- Ceramia blenna (Salisb.) G.Don [valid]
- Ericoides blennum (Salisb.) Kuntze [valid]
Description
Erica blenna (also called Blenna heath, among many other common names) is a small evergreen shrub, typically growing to a height of 0.3–1 m (1–3 ft). It is native to South Africa and is found in dry, rocky areas and on coastal sand dunes.
Uses & Benefits
Erica blenna 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 blenna var. blenna
Erica blenna var. grandiflora Bolus
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Erica blenna are white to pink, with five petals and a yellow centre. The seeds are small, black and shiny, and the seedlings are small, with a single pair of leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Erica blenna is a small, evergreen shrub that grows to a height of 1-2 m. It is native to South Africa and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Propagation is by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring or early summer in a well-drained seed compost. Cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer and rooted in a well-drained cutting compost.
Where to Find Erica blenna
Erica blenna can be found in South Africa.
Erica blenna FAQ
What is the scientific name of Erica blenna?
Erica blenna
What is the common name of Erica blenna?
Blenna Heath Erica
What is the natural habitat of Erica blenna?
It is native to South Africa and grows in rocky, sandy, and dry areas
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