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Description
Erica Tenuifolia, commonly known as the heath family, is a species of flowering plant in the Ericaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is widely grown for its long-lasting blooms and attractive foliage. Erica Tenuifolia is a small shrub that grows up to 15 inches in height and spreads around 24 inches in width. It has needle-like leaves that are green in color and small, bell-shaped flowers that come in shades of pink, purple, and white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Erica |
Appearance
Erica Tenuifolia has needle-like leaves that are around 0.5 inches long and green in color. The plant produces small, bell-shaped flowers that come in shades of pink, purple, and white. The flowers are around 0.5 inches in diameter and bloom in late winter to early spring. The plant grows up to 15 inches in height and spreads around 24 inches in width. It has a compact, rounded growth habit and is a great addition to rock gardens or mixed borders.
Care Guide
Water: Erica Tenuifolia prefers moist soil but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.Fertilization: Fertilize Erica Tenuifolia with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.Soil: Erica Tenuifolia prefers acidic, well-draining soil. Add peat moss or other organic matter to the soil to improve drainage.Sunlight: Erica Tenuifolia prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide the plant with at least six hours of sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Erica Tenuifolia is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erica Tenuifolia is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed. The plant is also prone to root rot if grown in waterlogged soil.
Habitat
Erica Tenuifolia is native to South Africa and is commonly found in fynbos shrubland. It grows in well-draining soil in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Erica Tenuifolia?
A: Water Erica Tenuifolia regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.Q: What are some common pests that affect Erica Tenuifolia?
A: Erica Tenuifolia is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.Q: What is the best soil for Erica Tenuifolia?
A: Erica Tenuifolia prefers acidic, well-draining soil. Add peat moss or other organic matter to the soil to improve drainage.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Erica Tenuifolia?
A: Erica Tenuifolia is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Related Plants
- Erica arborea
- Erica carnea
- Erica cinerea
- Erica lusitanica
- Erica tetralix
References
- “Erica Tenuifolia Plant Care Guide.” Gardenista, www.gardenista.com/posts/gardening-101-erica-tenuifolia-plant-care-guide/. Accessed 20 July 2021.
- “Erica Tenuifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l700. Accessed 20 July 2021.
- “Erica Tenuifolia.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13939/Erica-tenuifolia/Details. Accessed 20 July 2021.
