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Description
Erica Ciliaris is a species of flowering plant in the heath family, Ericaceae. It is commonly known as Dorset heath or pink winter heath. This evergreen shrub is native to Western Europe, including the United Kingdom, where it grows in heathlands, moors, and acidic soils. Erica Ciliaris is a popular garden plant due to its striking pink flowers that bloom from December to April, providing winter interest in the garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Erica |
Appearance
Erica Ciliaris is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and wide. Its leaves are small, needle-like, and dark green in color. The plant produces clusters of pink, bell-shaped flowers that are about 1 cm long and bloom from December to April. The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, making Erica Ciliaris a valuable plant for biodiversity in the garden.
Care Guide
Water: Erica Ciliaris prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization: Feed Erica Ciliaris with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring, and top-dress with organic matter to improve soil fertility.
Soil: Erica Ciliaris prefers acidic, well-draining soil. If your soil is alkaline, grow the plant in a container filled with ericaceous compost.
Sunlight: Erica Ciliaris prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, provide some shade in the afternoon.
Hardiness Zones: Erica Ciliaris is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erica Ciliaris is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil. Watch out for spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects that can infest the plant. Treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Erica Ciliaris is native to Western Europe, including the United Kingdom, where it grows in heathlands, moors, and acidic soils. It is often found growing with other heathland species such as heather (Calluna vulgaris) and gorse (Ulex europaeus).
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erica Ciliaris deer-resistant?
A: Erica Ciliaris is not deer-resistant. If you live in an area with deer, protect the plant with a fence or use deer repellents.
Q: Can Erica Ciliaris be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Erica Ciliaris can be grown in containers filled with ericaceous compost. Make sure the container has drainage holes and water the plant regularly.
Q: How often should I prune Erica Ciliaris?
A: Prune Erica Ciliaris after flowering to maintain its shape and promote bushy growth. Cut back the stems by about one-third, but avoid cutting into old wood as the plant may not regrow from it.
Q: Can Erica Ciliaris be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Erica Ciliaris can be propagated from semi-ripe cuttings taken in the summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a mixture of sand and peat. Keep the cuttings moist and in a shaded area until they root.
Related Plants
- Erica Carnea
- Erica Tetralix
- Erica Arborea
- Erica Cinerea
References
- “Erica Ciliaris.” RHS Gardening, Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/26432/erica-ciliaris/details.
- “Erica Ciliaris.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281244.
- “Erica Ciliaris.” Plant Finder, www.plantfinder.net/plants/erica-ciliaris.
