Erica x veitchii
Family: Ericaceae
What it is like
Erica x veitchii is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from February to April. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.
Height (m): 1.8
Where it is found
Not known in the wild.
A hybrid of garden origin, E. arborea x E. lusutanica.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 3
Can be grown as a medium-sized hedge, the cultivar 'Exeter' is often used.
Hedge: Plants that can be grown as hedges.
Hedge: Hedge
How it is grown
A calcifuge plant, it requires a light lime-free loam. Grows best in a poor soil. Resents dry soils. Prefers an open situation. A very ornamental and free-flowering species, there are some named varieties. Plants are not fully hardy in Britain and can be damaged in severe winters. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
Propagating it: Seed - surface sow in a sandy compost in a cold frame in spring. Keep moist. Prick out the plants as soon as they are large enough to handle and plant them in their permanent positions when they are 5 - 8cm tall. This species is a hybrid and will not breed true from seed. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 3cm long taken from twiggy lateral growths near the base of the plant, July/August in a frame. Remove the leaves from the bottom part of the stem without causing any damage to the bark. The cuttings root in a few weeks if they are given some bottom heat. Plant out in spring. Layering in spring or autumn. Plants can be 'dropped' and then dug up and divided about 6 - 12 months later. Dropping involves digging up the plant and then replanting it about 15 - 20cm deeper in the soil to encourage roots to form along the stems.
Best place to grow: Hedge;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist