Status:
valid
Authors:
L.
Source:
cmp
Year:
1753
Citation Micro:
Sp. Pl. : 352 (1753)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000671681
Common Names
- Erica cinerea
- Cinerea's heath
- Cinerea's heather
Description
Erica cinerea (also called Common heath, among many other common names) is a small shrub native to South Africa. It has small, needle-like leaves and pink or white flowers. It is found in dry, rocky areas and in open woodlands.
Uses & Benefits
Erica cinerea is a popular ornamental plant used in gardens and parks. It is also used as a hedge plant and in topiary. The flowers of this plant are edible and can be used to make tea.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Erica cinerea are white and bell-shaped, with yellow anthers. The seeds are small and round, and the seedlings are thin and delicate.
Cultivation and Propagation
Erica cinerea is an evergreen shrub that can be grown in full sun or partial shade. It prefers a well-drained soil and can tolerate some drought. Propagation is best done by cuttings taken in spring or summer. The cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth and should be about 10-15 cm long. They should be placed in a well-drained potting mix and kept moist until they have rooted.
Where to Find Erica cinerea
Erica cinerea is native to the Mediterranean region, including Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and Algeria.
Erica cinerea FAQ
What is the scientific name of Erica cinerea?
Erica cinerea
What are the common names of Erica cinerea?
Furze, Whin
What is the natural habitat of Erica cinerea?
It is native to western Europe, where it is found on dry, sandy soils and rocky hillsides
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