Fire Heath

Erica cerinthoides

Physical Characteristics

Erica cerinthoides is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils and can grow in very acid soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. Africa from the Cape to northern Transvaal and Swaziland.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; East Wall. By. South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Nectar Edible Uses: The flowers are sucked for their abundant sweet nectar[177, 183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known