Status:
valid
Authors:
Lam.
Source:
cmp
Year:
1785
Citation Micro:
Encycl. 1: 487 (1785)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000672887
Common Names
- Erica Petiolaris
- Petiolaris Erica
- Petiolaris Bell Heather
Synonyms
- Erica petiolata Thunb. [valid]
- Ericoides petiolatum (Thunb.) Kuntze [valid]
- Eurylepis petiolata (Salisb.) G.Don [valid]
Description
Erica petiolaris (also called Petiole heath, among many other common names) is a small evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It has small, needle-like leaves and white, bell-shaped flowers. It typically grows in sandy soils and open areas, such as coastal heaths and scrublands.
Uses & Benefits
Erica petiolaris is a popular ornamental shrub that is used in gardens and parks. It is also used as a windbreak and for erosion control. The flowers are edible and can be used to make tea and jams.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Erica petiolaris is a white to pale pink, bell-shaped flower with five petals. The seed is a small, dark brown nutlet. The seedlings are small and slender with narrow leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Erica petiolaris is a low-growing, evergreen shrub that can be propagated from cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in late summer or early autumn and planted in a well-draining, sandy soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a sheltered location until they are established. Once established, Erica petiolaris can be grown in full sun or partial shade.
Where to Find Erica petiolaris
Erica petiolaris can be found in the Mediterranean region.
Erica petiolaris FAQ
What are the growing conditions for Erica petiolaris?
Erica petiolaris prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
What is the best way to propagate Erica petiolaris?
Erica petiolaris can be propagated from cuttings or by division.
What pests or diseases can affect Erica petiolaris?
Erica petiolaris is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot.
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