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Description
Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams, commonly known as Williams heath, is a small evergreen shrub that belongs to the heather family. It is native to South Africa and is a popular garden plant. The plant has small, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in winter and spring. It grows up to 50cm tall and has a spread of 70cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Erica |
Appearance
Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams has small, needle-like leaves that are green and glossy. The leaves are arranged in whorls along the stems. The plant produces small, bell-shaped flowers that are pink to red in color. The flowers bloom in winter and spring and are borne in clusters at the tips of the stems. The plant grows up to 50cm tall and has a spread of 70cm.
Care Guide
To care for Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams, follow these guidelines:Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in spring and again in summer.Soil: Plant Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams in well-draining, acidic soil.Sunlight: Plant the shrub in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams is susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Spider mites and scale insects may also infest the plant. To prevent pests and diseases, ensure that the soil is well-draining and the plant is not overwatered. Use insecticidal soap to control pests.
Habitat
Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky areas and on mountain slopes. In cultivation, the plant is often grown in rock gardens or as a container plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams tolerate frost?
A: No, the plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.Q: How often should I fertilize Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams?
A: Fertilize the plant in spring and again in summer with a slow-release fertilizer.Q: What is the best soil for Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams?
A: Plant the shrub in well-draining, acidic soil.Q: Can I grow Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams in a container?
A: Yes, the plant is well-suited for container gardening.
Related Plants
Other members of the Erica genus include:
- Erica arborea
- Erica carnea
- Erica cinerea
- Erica tetralix
References
- “Erica Williamsii.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16455/i-Erica-williamsii-i-P-D-Williams/Details. Accessed 22 May 2021.
- “Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c773. Accessed 22 May 2021.
- “Williams Heath: Erica Williamsii P.D. Williams.” Gardenia.net, www.gardenia.net/plant/erica-williamsii-williams-heath. Accessed 22 May 2021.
