Contents
Description
Erica Pulvinata, commonly known as dwarf mountain heath, is a low-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Ericaceae. It is native to the mountains of Europe, particularly the Alps, and can also be found in North Africa and Asia. This plant species can grow up to 15 cm tall and spreads up to 50 cm wide. Erica Pulvinata produces small, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers can be pink, purple, or white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Erica |
Appearance
Erica Pulvinata has small, needle-like leaves that are green in color. The leaves are arranged in whorls around the stem. The flowers of this plant are bell-shaped and can be pink, purple, or white. They are about 5mm in length and bloom in late spring to early summer. This plant species can grow up to 15 cm tall and spreads up to 50 cm wide. Erica Pulvinata has a compact, cushion-like growth habit.
Care Guide
To care for Erica Pulvinata, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is acidic in nature. The plant should be watered regularly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Fertilization should be done in early spring using a slow-release fertilizer. This plant species prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C. It is hardy in zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erica Pulvinata is susceptible to spider mites, which can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves. It can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent spider mites, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilization. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Erica Pulvinata is native to the mountains of Europe, particularly the Alps. It can also be found in North Africa and Asia. This plant species grows in rocky, alpine habitats at elevations between 1500-3000m. It can tolerate cold temperatures and harsh growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Erica Pulvinata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Erica Pulvinata can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth habit.
Q: How often should Erica Pulvinata be watered?
A: Erica Pulvinata should be watered regularly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. This plant species prefers well-draining soil.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Erica Pulvinata?
A: Fertilization should be done in early spring using a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Erica Pulvinata?
A: Erica Pulvinata is hardy in zones 6-9.
Related Plants
- Erica Carnea
- Erica Tetralix
- Erica Arborea
- Erica Ciliaris
References
- “Erica Pulvinata.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 September 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280228&isprofile=0&cv=7
- “Erica Pulvinata (Dwarf Mountain Heath).” Gardenia.net. Accessed 28 September 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/erica-pulvinata-dwarf-mountain-heath
- “Erica Pulvinata.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 28 September 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10131/Erica-pulvinata/Details
