Status:
valid
Authors:
P.J.Bergius
Source:
cmp
Year:
1767
Citation Micro:
Descr. Pl. Cap. : 112 (1767)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000672027
Common Names
- Heath Heath
- Heath Heath Heath
- Heath Heath Heath Heath
Synonyms
- Erica pilulifera Andrews [valid]
- Ericoides mucosum (L.) Kuntze [valid]
- Erica mucosa brevifolia Benth. [unknown]
Description
Erica ferrea (also called Iron heath, among many other common names) is a low-growing evergreen shrub with small, needle-like leaves and small, bell-shaped white flowers. It is native to South Africa and typically grows in rocky, sandy soils in dry, open areas.
Uses & Benefits
Erica ferrea is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It has a long flowering period and is known for its bright pink flowers. It is also used for erosion control and soil stabilization.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Erica ferrea has small, white to pinkish flowers that are borne in dense clusters. The flowers are followed by small, round, black seeds. The seedlings have small, oval-shaped leaves with a white-hairy covering.
Cultivation and Propagation
Erica ferrea can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a light, well-drained soil mix and kept at a temperature of around 18-20°C (64-68°F). Cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer and rooted in a light, well-drained soil mix. Keep the cuttings at a temperature of around 18-20°C (64-68°F).
Where to Find Erica ferrea
Erica ferrea can be found in the Mediterranean region, including parts of Spain, France, and Italy.
Erica ferrea FAQ
What is the scientific name of Erica ferrea?
Erica ferrea
What is the natural habitat of Erica ferrea?
Erica ferrea is found in rocky outcrops in the Eastern Cape of South Africa.
What are the characteristics of Erica ferrea?
Erica ferrea is a shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has small, white flowers.
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