Heathers

Heathers are perfect subjects for the small garden. They are indispensable for providing flower and foliage colour all year round as well as being very attractive to pollinating insects.

Winter-flowering heathers play a valuable role and should not be overlooked, especially as companions for hellebores, cyclamen and winter bulbs. Many varieties have beautiful foliage colour which intensifies in cold conditions. Cultivars of Erica x darleyensis and Erica carnea will produce a profusion of flowers as early as November. These last well into spring and on sunny days will come alive with the buzzing of bees.

Summer-flowering heathers include several species, the largest group being Calluna vulgaris, and can be guaranteed to add both foliage and flower colour, attracting bees and butterflies from far and wide. Many have attractively coloured young foliage tips, adding to their appeal.

All heathers are perfect companions for small shrubs, Japanese azaleas, dwarf rhododendrons and slow-growing conifers. Or you may prefer to create a heather garden, planting bold drifts of them for maximum effect.

Try them in your patio pots, especially pots for winter and early spring colour. Mix with miniature bulbs, trailing ivy and young Skimmia.