Status:
valid
Authors:
E.G.H.Oliv.
Source:
cmp
Year:
1999
Citation Micro:
Bothalia 29: 115 (1999)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000673286
Common Names
- Sperata Erica
- Erica Sperata
- Sperata Heather
Description
Erica sperata (also called Hopeful heath, among many other common names) is a small shrub native to South Africa. It has small, needle-like leaves and small, white flowers. It grows in rocky, sandy soils and is found in dry, open areas.
Uses & Benefits
Erica sperata is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as an ingredient in potpourri. It is also used for its medicinal properties, such as treating coughs, colds, and other respiratory ailments.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Erica sperata has white or pink flowers that are bell-shaped and have a sweet scent. The seed is a small, hard, dark brown capsule that contains several small, black seeds. The seedlings are small, with green leaves and white flowers.
Cultivation and Propagation
Erica sperata is a hardy evergreen shrub that grows in full sun to partial shade. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate drought. Propagation is done from cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. The cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth and should be about 4-6 inches long. They should be planted in a well-drained, sandy soil mix and kept moist until they have rooted. Once established, Erica sperata can be propagated by division.
Where to Find Erica sperata
Erica sperata can be found in the Mediterranean region, including Portugal, Spain, and North Africa.
Erica sperata FAQ
What is the scientific name of Erica sperata?
Erica sperata
What is the common name of Erica sperata?
Heath
What is the natural habitat of Erica sperata?
Woodlands and heaths
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