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Description
Erica Cinerea Golden Hue, also known as heath plant, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to Europe and grows well in well-drained soils with an acidic pH. The plant features golden-yellow foliage that turns into bronze during the winter months. In the summer, it produces small, pink flowers that bloom in clusters and attract bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Erica |
Appearance
Erica Cinerea Golden Hue is a compact shrub that grows up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide. The plant features needle-like leaves that are golden-yellow in color and turn bronze in winter. The leaves are arranged in whorls of three around the stem. In the summer, it produces small, bell-shaped pink flowers that bloom in clusters at the end of the stems. The flowers attract bees and other pollinators to the garden.
Care Guide
Erica Cinerea Golden Hue requires well-drained soils with an acidic pH between 5.5 and 6.5. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8. Here are some care tips for growing Erica Cinerea Golden Hue:- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as the plant does not tolerate wet feet.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with an acidic fertilizer in the spring and fall to promote healthy growth.- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils that can cause root rot.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In hotter regions, provide some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.- Hardiness Zones: Erica Cinerea Golden Hue is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erica Cinerea Golden Hue is generally pest and disease-free. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth of the plant. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.- Root rot: This can occur in poorly-drained soils that retain too much moisture. Avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Erica Cinerea Golden Hue is native to Europe and grows well in well-drained soils with an acidic pH. It is commonly found in heathlands, moorlands, and other open areas. The plant is well-suited for rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Erica Cinerea Golden Hue?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as the plant does not tolerate wet feet.
Q: What is the ideal pH for Erica Cinerea Golden Hue?
A: The plant requires well-drained soils with an acidic pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Q: Can Erica Cinerea Golden Hue tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, the plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Q: Does Erica Cinerea Golden Hue attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces small, pink flowers that bloom in clusters and attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:- Erica Carnea- Erica X Darleyensis- Erica Tetralix- Calluna Vulgaris
References
– “Erica cinerea ‘Golden Hue’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=273722&isprofile=0&cv=1.- “Heaths and Heathers.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/heather/growing-heathers-and-heaths.htm.- “Erica Cinerea Golden Hue.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/201752/i-Erica-cinerea-i-Golden-Hue/Details.
