Heather 'Bell's Extra Special' Erica carnea f. aureifolia 'Bell's Extra Special'

Water

Winter heath, commonly known as Erica carnea, including the 'Bell's Extra Special' variety, should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells. In general, it is advisable to water this plant once or twice a week, providing about 1 gallon of water per plant for each watering session. During hot, dry periods, you may need to increase the frequency of watering to prevent the soil from drying out completely, but always ensure that the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Light

Erica carnea thrives best in full sun to partial shade. For 'Bell's Extra Special', a location that receives at least four to six hours of sunlight per day is ideal. A spot that offers morning sunlight and afternoon shade is preferable in regions with very intense midday sun, as this can help protect the plant from excessive heat stress.

Temperature

The 'Bell's Extra Special' winter heath is hardy and well-suited to a range of temperature conditions. It can survive winter temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit and can handle summer temperatures up to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 30 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, where it will thrive and produce vibrant blooms.

Pruning

Pruning winter heath, such as 'Bell's Extra Special', is important to maintain a compact shape and to encourage fresh growth. Prune immediately after blooming in late spring to avoid cutting off next year's buds. Remove dead flowers and any dead or damaged branches, cutting back to healthy wood. A light trim every year or as needed to shape the plant is often enough.

Cleaning

Not needed

Soil

Winter Heath (Erica carnea f. aureifolia 'Bell's Extra Special') prefers acidic, well-drained soil with a pH of 4.5–5.5. A mix of peat moss, sand, and loamy soil in equal parts creates an ideal environment for this plant.

Repotting

Winter Heath generally requires repotting every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its current pot to ensure continued growth and health.

Humidity & Misting

Winter Heath thrives in a moderately humid environment, but it is quite adaptable and does not require specific humidity levels, making it suitable for most homes.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, cool temperatures, and acidic soil for Winter Heath.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-drained, acidic soil; full sun to partial shade.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

As a cultivar of winter heath, 'Bell's Extra Special' begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in early spring, developing into a small seedling. The seedling then enters a vegetative stage, forming a woody evergreen shrub with golden foliage. Over the years, it will reach maturity and exhibit vigorous growth, typically staying compact but spreading outward. Each winter into early spring, the mature shrub produces copious pink flowers, attracting pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into dry capsules containing seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The shrub is perennial, so this cycle of growth and bloom repeats annually for many years.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late summer to autumn

• Propogation: Erica carnea f. aureifolia 'Bell's Extra Special', commonly known as Winter Heath, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to take these cuttings is in late summer, after the plant has finished flowering and new growth has started to mature. To propagate by cuttings, a grower would select healthy, non-flowering stems and cut pieces about 2 to 4 inches long. It's crucial to make the cut just below a node, as this is where roots are most likely to develop. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cut end can be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root growth before being planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings need to be kept in a humid environment with indirect light until the roots establish, after which they can be transplanted.