Glandular heath Erica glandulosa

Water

The plant commonly known as glandular heath requires careful watering to avoid both waterlogging and drying out. It should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This may vary depending on the season and climate, but typically watering once a week with 1 to 2 gallons of water during growing season is sufficient. In winter, reduce watering to half of this amount every other week. Ensure that the water is distributed evenly around the base of the plant.

Light

Glandular heath thrives in bright, indirect light or partial shade. It is best situated in a spot that receives morning sunlight but is protected from the intense heat of afternoon sun. Avoid placing it in deep shade, as this can lead to poor flowering and weak growth.

Temperature

Glandular heath does well in moderate temperatures and can survive in temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit to highs around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. It's crucial to protect the plant from frost, as temperatures below 30 degrees Fahrenheit can be damaging.

Pruning

Pruning glandular heath helps maintain its shape and promotes vigorous growth. Prune immediately after flowering by removing dead flowers and any straggly or dead branches. This is generally done once a year; however, if the plant is growing vigorously, a light trim can be given in late summer or early fall to keep its compact shape.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Heath soil prefers acidic conditions, so a mix rich in ericaceous compost with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5 is ideal for Cape Heath. The soil should be well-draining with added peat or pine bark to maintain acidity.

Repotting

Cape Heath should be repotted every two to three years to prevent soil compaction and refresh the nutrient availability. Choose a slightly larger pot to encourage growth.

Humidity & Misting

Cape Heath thrives best in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50-70%. Avoid placing it in very dry environments which can lead to stress and leaf drop.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light and keep soil moist for Cape Heath indoors.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade and well-draining acidic soil for Cape Heath.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Erica glandulosa, commonly known as glandular heath, begins its life cycle as a seed shed from the mature capsules of the parent plant. These seeds require a well-drained, acidic soil to germinate, typically doing so with the assistance of fire or scarification, which breaks seed dormancy. After germination, the seedling grows into a young plant, developing a root system and foliage as it matures. During its growth, it forms the characteristic needle-like leaves and begins to produce the glandular, bell-shaped flowers for which it is named, usually flowering between mid-winter and spring. Pollination is primarily conducted by insects like bees, after which the plant sets seed in capsules that will eventually release them to restart the cycle. With favorable conditions, Erica glandulosa can live for many years, and mature plants may survive for over a decade, continuing to grow, flower, and produce seeds throughout their lifespan.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Erica glandulosa, commonly known as glandular heath, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This is typically done in late summer when the new growth has begun to mature and firm up. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long and have a few leaves left at the top, while the lower leaves are stripped off to expose the nodes. The cut end of the cutting is often dipped in rooting hormone powder to facilitate root development before being placed in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should then be kept in a humid environment with indirect light until they root, which usually takes several weeks. To maintain the necessary humidity, the pot can be covered with a plastic bag or placed in a propagator if available. Regular misting also helps in preventing the cuttings from drying out before they root.