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Description
Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby is a beautiful, evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is commonly known as Winter Heath or Spring Heath and is native to Europe. It is a low-growing shrub that reaches a maximum height of 30cm and a spread of 60cm. Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby is a popular plant in gardens due to its attractive pink flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Erica |
Appearance
Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby has small, needle-like leaves that are dark green in color. The leaves are arranged in whorls around the stem. The plant produces pink flowers that are bell-shaped and appear in clusters at the tips of the branches. The flowers are about 1cm in diameter and bloom from late winter to early spring. The plant has a low, spreading habit and forms a dense mat of foliage.
Care Guide
Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, acidic soil. If your soil is alkaline, add some peat moss or compost to the planting hole.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby is generally disease-resistant and pest-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby is native to the mountains of central Europe. It grows in heathlands, rocky slopes, and open woodlands. The plant prefers cool, moist conditions and is adapted to harsh winter weather.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s spreading habit.
Q: How often should I prune my Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby?
A: Prune the plant immediately after flowering to maintain its shape and promote bushy growth.
Q: Can I propagate Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in early summer.
Related Plants
- Erica Carnea Springwood White
- Erica Carnea Springwood Pink
- Erica Carnea Winter Beauty
- Erica X Darleyensis Mediterranean Pink
References
- “Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby.” Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/34322/Erica-carnea-Myretoun-Ruby/Details. Accessed 15 July 2021.
- “Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby.” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m900. Accessed 15 July 2021.
- “Erica Carnea Myretoun Ruby.” Plant Heritage, https://www.nccpg.com/Conservation/Plant-Conservation/Plant-Heritage-Conservation-Plants/Conservation-Plants/Erica-carnea-Myretoun-Ruby.aspx. Accessed 15 July 2021.
