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Description
Erica Lusitanica, commonly known as Portuguese heath, is a flowering evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to Portugal and Spain and can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The plant produces small, bell-shaped, white or pinkish flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. Erica Lusitanica is a popular garden plant due to its attractive appearance and hardiness.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Erica |
Appearance
Erica Lusitanica has small, needle-like leaves that are dark green in color. The plant produces small, bell-shaped, white or pinkish flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches, and they have five petals and five sepals. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and has a compact, rounded shape.
Care Guide
Erica Lusitanica requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater as this can cause root rot. Fertilize the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Erica Lusitanica prefers full sun or partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erica Lusitanica is susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. The plant is also susceptible to spider mites and aphids. To prevent spider mites and aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or use an insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Erica Lusitanica is native to Portugal and Spain and is commonly found in heathlands and scrublands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erica Lusitanica a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Erica Lusitanica is a relatively easy plant to care for and is a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Q: Can Erica Lusitanica tolerate freezing temperatures?
A: No, Erica Lusitanica is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: Can Erica Lusitanica be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Erica Lusitanica can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Erica Lusitanica be fertilized?
A: Erica Lusitanica should be fertilized once a year with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
Related Plants
- Erica arborea
- Erica carnea
- Erica cinerea
- Erica tetralix
References
- “Erica Lusitanica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 Nov 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l930>
- “Portuguese Heath.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 22 Nov 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/27181/i-Erica-lusitanica-i/Details>
- “Erica Lusitanica.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 22 Nov 2021. <https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:329068-1>
