Scotch heather (Calluna vulgaris 'Spring Torch') kal-LOO-nah vul-GAR-iss Synonyms:  Erica vulgaris Genus:  Calluna

'Spring Torch' gets its name from the vibrant color of its new growth in spring. The mid-green leaves are tipped in shades of cream, orange, and red. Later in the summer, mauve-pink flower spikes cover the plant and last into the fall. As cold weather sets in, leaves acquire bronze or purple tones, adding further interest. This small, mounding evergreen shrub makes a good groundcover or rock garden plant. Bees love it. Different cultivars are beautiful woven together in the garden to form a colorful tapestry.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Colorful new growth; pink flower spikes in late summer and fall. Attractive to bees.

Care: 

Heather needs an open site in well-drained, fertile, acidic soil in full sun. Mulch and cover with pine boughs if snow cover is not consistent. Prune annually in spring by cutting back flowered shoots to within an inch of previous year's growth.

Propagation: 

Layer in spring, or root semi-ripe, 2-inch cuttings in mid-summer.

Problems: 

During hot summers, spider mites may be a problem.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Flowers Bloom Time Fall, Summer Flower Color Pink Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage Uses Cut Flower, Ground Covers Style Rock Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Shrubs