Status:
valid
Authors:
(P.J.Bergius) Thunb.
Source:
cmp
Year:
1794
Citation Micro:
Prodr. Pl. Cap. : 71 (1794)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000673040
Description
Erica purpurea (also called Purple Heath, among many other common names) is a small evergreen shrub with a dense, compact habit. It is native to Europe and is found in dry, rocky habitats.
Uses & Benefits
Erica purpurea is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a cut flower for bouquets. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat fever and inflammation.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Erica purpurea are white or pinkish-white, and the seeds are small and dark brown. The seedlings are small and have a single pair of leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Erica purpurea can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring in a well-drained, sandy soil. Cuttings should be taken in late summer or early autumn and rooted in a light, sandy soil. It should be kept moist and in a bright, but not sunny, location.
Where to Find Erica purpurea
Erica purpurea is native to the Mediterranean region and is found in the wild in Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, and Greece.
Erica purpurea FAQ
What is the scientific name of Erica purpurea?
Erica purpurea
What is the common name of Erica purpurea?
Purple heath
What is the natural habitat of Erica purpurea?
Dry, sandy soils
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