Status:
valid
Authors:
Benth.
Source:
cmp
Year:
1839
Citation Micro:
Prodr. 7: 620 (1839)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000671876
Common Names
- Erica desmantha
- Desmantha Heath
- Desmantha Bell Heather
Description
Erica desmantha (also called 'Desmantha Heath', among many other common names) is a small evergreen shrub native to South Africa. It typically grows to a height of 0.5-1m and has small, needle-like leaves and small, pinkish-white flowers. It is found in dry, rocky areas and is tolerant of drought and poor soils.
Uses & Benefits
Erica desmantha is an evergreen shrub that is commonly used as an ornamental in gardens. It can also be used as a hedge or a windbreak. It has a pleasant aroma and is attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Erica desmantha var. urceolata H.A.Baker
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Erica desmantha has white or pink flowers, small, dry, four-sided capsules containing numerous small seeds, and small, dark green seedlings.
Cultivation and Propagation
Erica desmantha is a low-growing, evergreen shrub that grows to a height of up to 1m. It is best grown in well-drained, acidic soil in full sun or partial shade. Propagation is best done by cuttings taken in spring or summer, or by layering in autumn.
Where to Find Erica desmantha
Erica desmantha can be found in the Mediterranean region, including Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece.
Erica desmantha FAQ
What type of soil does Erica desmantha prefer?
Erica desmantha prefers acidic, well-drained soils.
What type of climate does Erica desmantha prefer?
Erica desmantha prefers cool, moist climates.
How often should Erica desmantha be watered?
Erica desmantha should be watered regularly, but not too often.
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