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Description
Erica Coarctata, commonly known as the Dorset heath, is a species of flowering plant in the family Ericaceae. It is native to the United Kingdom and can also be found in parts of Europe. This plant is a small evergreen shrub that can grow up to 30 cm tall. It has needle-like leaves and produces small, bell-shaped pink flowers that bloom from late summer to early autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Erica |
Appearance
Erica Coarctata is a small, compact evergreen shrub with dense foliage. The leaves are needle-like and grow up to 5 mm in length. They are dark green in color and have a slightly glossy appearance. The flowers are small, bell-shaped, and pink in color. They grow in clusters at the end of the stems and bloom from late summer to early autumn. The plant can grow up to 30 cm tall and has a spread of up to 60 cm.
Care Guide
To care for Erica Coarctata, it is important to provide the right growing conditions. Here are some tips:Water: Erica Coarctata prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.Fertilization: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth.Soil: This plant prefers acidic, well-drained soil. If your soil is alkaline, add peat moss to lower the pH.Sunlight: Erica Coarctata prefers full sun to partial shade. Too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erica Coarctata is generally a hardy plant and is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.Phytophthora root rot: This fungal disease can be caused by waterlogged soil. To prevent it, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Erica Coarctata is native to the United Kingdom and can be found in parts of Europe. It grows in heathlands, moorlands, and other open areas with acidic soil. It is often used in landscaping as a low-growing border plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Erica Coarctata tolerate drought?
A: No, this plant prefers moist soil and may not tolerate drought well.Q: How often should I fertilize Erica Coarctata?
A: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring and do not fertilize again until the following year.Q: Is Erica Coarctata deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant.Q: Can Erica Coarctata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and it receives adequate sunlight.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Erica genus:
- Erica Carnea
- Erica Cinerea
- Erica Tetralix
- Erica Arborea
References
- “Erica Coarctata.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/3874/i-Erica-coarctata-i/Details. Accessed 19 Aug. 2021.
- “Erica Coarctata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281586. Accessed 19 Aug. 2021.
- “Erica Coarctata.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/204592/. Accessed 19 Aug. 2021.
