Heather, Scotch Heather

Calluna vulgaris

Physical Characteristics

Calluna vulgaris is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to October, and the seeds ripen from October to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies), wind. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Much of Europe, including Britain, to N. W. Morocco. Less abundant in the east of its range..

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Ground Cover; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Edible Uses: Condiment Tea A tea is made from the flowering stems[177, 183]. A kind of mead was once brewed from the flowers and the young shoots have been used instead of hops to flavour beer[7, 183].

Medicinal Uses

Antianxiety Antirheumatic Antiseptic Bach Cholagogue Depurative Diaphoretic Diuretic Expectorant Sedative Urinary Vasoconstrictor Heather has a long history of medicinal use in folk medicine. In particular it is a good urinary antiseptic and diuretic, disinfecting the urinary tract and mildly increasing urine production[254]. The flowering shoots are antiseptic, astringent, cholagogue, depurative, diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, mildly sedative and vasoconstrictor[7, 8, 9, 21, 165, 238]. The plant is often macerated and made into a liniment for treating rheumatism and arthritis, whilst a hot poultice is a traditional remedy for chilblains[7, 254]. An infusion of the flowering shoots is used in the treatment of coughs, colds, bladder and kidney disorders, cystitis etc[9, 238, 254]. A cleansing and detoxifying plant, it has been used in the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis and gout[254]. The flowering stems are harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[7]. The plant is used in Bach flower remedies - the keywords for prescribing it are 'Self-centredness' and 'Self-concern'[209]. A homeopathic remedy is made from the fresh branches[9]. It is used in the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis and insomnia[9].

Known Hazards

None known