Status:
valid
Authors:
E.G.H.Oliv.
Source:
cmp
Year:
1995
Citation Micro:
Bothalia 25: 91 (1995)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000673366
Common Names
- Erica tarantulae
- Heath Heath
- Irish Heath
Description
Erica tarantulae (also called Tarantula heath, among many other common names) is a species of evergreen shrub in the family Ericaceae. It is native to South Africa and is found in dry, rocky areas. It has small, white flowers and grows up to 1 meter tall.
Uses & Benefits
Erica tarantulae is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is also used for erosion control, as a windbreak, and as a source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Erica tarantulae is a small, white, bell-shaped flower. The seed is a small, black, round seed. The seedlings are small, green, and have a single, oval-shaped leaf.
Cultivation and Propagation
Erica tarantulae is a low-growing, evergreen shrub that can reach up to 1m in height. It prefers moist, well-drained soils in full sun or partial shade. Propagation is by cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn.
Where to Find Erica tarantulae
Erica tarantulae is native to the Mediterranean region, including Spain, Portugal, and Italy.
Erica tarantulae FAQ
What is the natural habitat of Erica tarantulae?
Erica tarantulae is native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa.
What is the best soil type for Erica tarantulae?
Erica tarantulae prefers well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
How much sunlight does Erica tarantulae need?
Erica tarantulae prefers full sun to partial shade.
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