Status:
valid
Authors:
L.
Source:
cmp
Year:
1753
Citation Micro:
Sp. Pl. : 353 (1753)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000671586
Common Names
- Erica caffra
- Caffra Heath
- Caffra's Heath
Description
Erica caffra (also called Common Heath, among many other common names) is a small evergreen shrub that grows up to 2 m in height. It is native to South Africa, and is found in fynbos, grassland, and other open habitats.
Uses & Benefits
Erica caffra is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a cut flower. It is also used to make honey and as a medicinal herb to treat respiratory and digestive ailments.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Erica caffra var. caffra
Erica caffra var. auricularis (Salisb.) Bolus
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Erica caffra 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 caffra can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-drained, sandy soil mix and kept moist. Cuttings should be taken in late summer or early autumn and rooted in a sandy soil mix. The plants should be grown in full sun and well-drained soil.
Where to Find Erica caffra
Erica caffra can be found in South Africa.
Erica caffra FAQ
What is the scientific name of Erica caffra?
Erica caffra
What is the common name of Erica caffra?
Common heath
What is the natural habitat of Erica caffra?
Erica caffra is native to South Africa
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