Status:
valid
Authors:
Andrews
Source:
cmp
Year:
1845
Citation Micro:
Col. Engr. Heaths , ed. 2, 2: t. 94 (1845)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000673375
Common Names
- Erica tenella
- Heath Heath
- Irish Heath
Description
Erica tenella (also called Fine-leaved 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 tenella 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.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Erica tenella var. gracilior Bolus
Erica tenella var. tenella
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Erica tenella has small, white flowers with five petals. The seed is a small, brown capsule with a single seed inside. The seedling is a small, green plant with small, oval leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Erica tenella can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-drained, sandy soil and kept moist. Cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer and rooted in a sandy soil mix. The plants should be grown in a sunny location and will tolerate some drought.
Where to Find Erica tenella
Erica tenella is native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.
Erica tenella FAQ
What is the natural habitat of Erica tenella?
Erica tenella is native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa.
What is the best soil type for Erica tenella?
Erica tenella prefers well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
How much sunlight does Erica tenella need?
Erica tenella 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