Erica carnea

A low-growing evergreen shrub or groundcover that is attractive year-round. Prefers sandy, acidic, well-drained soil. Sometimes need to plant in raised beds to achieve adequate drainage. Avoid clay soils. Forms a dense mat over time and makes an excellent choice for slopes.  Plants prefer cool summer temperatures so they are a challenge in the south.  Prune it right after flowering in the spring to avoid leafless stems.

It is in the same family as and closely related to Scotch heather (Calluna vulgaris). 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious problems. Powdery mildew, rust, and wilt occasionally occur, in poorly drained soils root rot can affect this plant.  

Quick ID Hints:

• Evergreen shrub with linear, needle-like leaves
• Leaves are in whorls of 3 or 4, at 90 degrees to stem
• Small, urceolate flowers** in leaf axils; anther protrudes

Evergreen, prostrate shrub to small shrubby tree. 

Bloom time varies with species (there are over 700), but is usually early spring to fall; some species are used as ground covers whereas others are shrubs or even tree-like; leaves are always needle-like and whorled and flowers are urceolate. 

Requires moist, well-drained soil with high organic content and low fertility, full sun to part shade; intolerant hot, dry conditions or heavy pruning (into the wood); no serious pest/disease problems.