Status:
valid
Authors:
(H.Perrier) Dorr & E.G.H.Oliv.
Source:
cmp
Year:
1999
Citation Micro:
Adansonia , sér. 3, 21: 89 (1999)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000673295
Common Names
- Spinifera Erica
- Erica Spinifera
- Spinifera Heather
Synonyms
- Philippia spinifera H.Perrier [valid]
Description
Erica spinifera (also called Spiny heath, among many other common names) is a small evergreen shrub that is native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa. It has small, needle-like leaves and small white flowers that bloom in the summer. It is found in rocky areas and heathlands.
Uses & Benefits
Erica spinifera is used in landscaping and is known for its attractive pink flowers and its ability to thrive in dry, sandy soils. It is also used as a cut flower and in dried flower arrangements.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The Erica spinifera flower is a small, bell-shaped flower with five petals. The petals are white or pinkish-white in color. The seed is a small, black, round seed. The seedlings are small, green, and have a tuft of fine, white hairs at the tip.
Cultivation and Propagation
Erica spinifera 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 spinifera can be propagated by division.
Where to Find Erica spinifera
Erica spinifera can be found in the Mediterranean region, including Portugal, Spain, and North Africa.
Erica spinifera FAQ
What is the scientific name of Erica spinifera?
Erica spinifera
What is the natural habitat of Erica spinifera?
Erica spinifera is native to the Mediterranean region.
What are the common uses of Erica spinifera?
Erica spinifera is commonly used as an ornamental plant for landscaping and as a cut flower.
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