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Description
Erica Plena, also known as the heath family, is a subshrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its delicate pink and white flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. Erica Plena typically grows up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it ideal for small gardens and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Erica |
| Species | Plena |
Appearance
Erica Plena has small, needle-like leaves that are evergreen and arranged in whorls of three. The leaves are dark green in color and grow up to 0.25 inches long. The flowers of Erica Plena are bell-shaped and grow in clusters at the ends of the stems. They are typically pink or white in color and bloom in late spring and early summer. The plant has a compact, rounded growth habit and typically grows up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Erica Plena is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires well-drained soil and regular watering. It prefers acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5 and should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Erica Plena should be planted in a location that receives full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erica Plena is susceptible to root rot, especially in poorly-drained soil. It may also be affected by spider mites, which can be controlled with regular spraying of water. Additionally, Erica Plena may be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Erica Plena is native to South Africa and is commonly found in fynbos, a vegetation type found in the Western Cape region of South Africa. It typically grows in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erica Plena a drought-tolerant plant?
A: No, Erica Plena requires regular watering and is not drought-tolerant.
Q: Can Erica Plena be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Erica Plena is a great plant for containers due to its compact growth habit.
Q: What is the best time of year to fertilize Erica Plena?
A: Erica Plena should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the ideal pH for soil when growing Erica Plena?
A: Erica Plena prefers acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Related Plants
- Erica carnea
- Erica cinerea
- Erica tetralix
- Erica vagans
References
- “Erica Plena.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282170&isprofile=0&basic=Erica%20plena. Accessed 30 Aug. 2021.
- “Heath Erica Plena.” Plantzafrica.com, www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/erica.htm. Accessed 30 Aug. 2021.
- “Erica Plena.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/24424/i-erica-plena-i/details. Accessed 30 Aug. 2021.
