Phyllodoce Aleutica

Description

Phyllodoce Aleutica, also known as the Aleutian Mountain Heather, is a beautiful flowering plant species that is native to Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. It belongs to the family Ericaceae and is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping due to its stunning appearance and hardiness.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Phyllodoce Aleutica is a low-growing evergreen shrub that can reach up to 1-2 feet in height and width. It has small, needle-like leaves that are dark green in color and have a glossy texture. The plant produces beautiful bell-shaped flowers that range from pink to purple in color and bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by small, brown seed capsules that contain tiny seeds.

Care Guide

Phyllodoce Aleutica is a hardy plant species that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:

• Water: Water your plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for acid-loving plants.
• Soil: Phyllodoce Aleutica prefers well-draining soil that is acidic (pH of 5.0 to 6.0). If your soil is not acidic, consider adding peat moss or sulfur to lower the pH.
• Sunlight: Plant your Phyllodoce Aleutica in a location that receives partial to full sunlight.
• Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.

Common Pests & Diseases

Phyllodoce Aleutica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues to watch out for:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and browning of leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap.
• Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.

Habitat

Phyllodoce Aleutica is native to Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, where it grows in rocky, mountainous areas at elevations of 3,000 to 6,000 feet. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate cold temperatures and high winds.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Phyllodoce Aleutica be grown in containers?

A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and acidic.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Phyllodoce Aleutica?

A: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.

Q: Does Phyllodoce Aleutica require pruning?

A: This plant does not require pruning, but you can trim back any dead or damaged branches in the spring.

Q: Is Phyllodoce Aleutica toxic to pets?

A: There is no evidence that this plant is toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep pets away from any plant that they may try to eat.

Related Plants

• Phyllodoce Breweri
• Phyllodoce Caerulea
• Phyllodoce Empetriformis
• Phyllodoce Glanduliflora

References

• “Phyllodoce Aleutica – Aleutian Mountain Heather.” North Cascades National Park Service Complex, U.S. National Park Service, 2021.
• “Phyllodoce Aleutica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021.
• “Aleutian Mountain Heather.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021.