Status:
valid
Authors:
(Spreng.) A.Heller
Source:
tro
Year:
1900
Citation Micro:
Muhlenbergia 1: 1 (1900)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001046887
Common Names
- Phyllodoce aleutica
- Aleutica Phyllodoce
- Aleutica Mountain Heather
Description
Phyllodoce aleutica (also called Aleutian Mountain Heather, Aleutian Mountain Pink, and Aleutian Pink Heather, among many other common names) is an evergreen shrub that grows up to 3 feet tall. It has small, needle-like leaves and pink flowers that bloom in the summer. It is native to the Aleutian Islands of Alaska and is found in moist, acidic soils in alpine meadows and open woodlands.
Uses & Benefits
Phyllodoce aleutica is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Phyllodoce aleutica are small, white, and bell-shaped. The seeds are small, dark brown, and ovate. The seedlings are small, with a single stem and two opposite leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Phyllodoce aleutica is a low-growing evergreen shrub that can be propagated from cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from a healthy stem and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cutting in a rooting hormone and plant in a pot filled with a mixture of peat moss and sand. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment and it should root in 4-6 weeks. Once rooted, transplant into a larger pot filled with a well-draining soil mix and keep in partial shade.
Where to Find Phyllodoce aleutica
Phyllodoce aleutica can be found in the Aleutian Islands of Alaska.
Species in the Phyllodoce genus
Species in the Ericaceae family