Scotch Heather Calluna vulgaris 'Hammondii Aureifolia'
ABOUT
Calluna vulgaris 'Hammondii Aureifolia', also known as Scotch heather, is a small, evergreen shrub renowned for its distinctive foliage and floral display. This variety is particularly notable for its colorful leaves which have a golden-yellow tinge, lending a bright and eye-catching aspect to the plant throughout the year. The leaves are small, scale-like, and tightly clustered along the stems, creating a fine-textured appearance. During the blooming period, Scotch heather produces small, bell-shaped flowers that cluster along the upright stems. The blooms can range in color from a light pink to a deeper purplish-pink, adding to the plant's ornamental appeal. These blossoms are a valuable resource for pollinating insects, such as bees, that are attracted to the flowers for nectar. As an evergreen shrub, Scotch heather maintains its presence in the garden across all seasons. Its foliage may undergo some color changes with the onset of colder weather, possibly deepening in hue, which further enhances its winter appeal. The combination of the golden-yellow foliage and the colorful flowers makes this plant a standout in any landscape where it complements other plants with its contrasting colors and textures.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ericaceae
Synonyms
Scotch Heather, Ling Heather, Scottish Heather
Common names
Calluna vulgaris 'Hammondii Aureifolia'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name of Calluna vulgaris 'Hammondii Aureifolia' is Heather. Heather is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of toxicity or poisoning from ingesting parts of this plant. Consequently, ingestion of Heather typically does not lead to harmful consequences for humans.
To pets
Heather is known by the common name for Calluna vulgaris 'Hammondii Aureifolia'. This plant is generally recognized as safe for pets and is not known to be toxic to animals. Therefore, ingestion of Heather by pets is not commonly associated with symptoms of poisoning or adverse health effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The heather plant, with its vibrant foliage and small flowers, adds beauty and color to gardens and landscapes.
- Wildlife Support: Provides food and habitat for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects which are crucial for pollination.
- Groundcover: Its low-growing habit makes it an excellent groundcover, helping to reduce weed growth and soil erosion.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, heather is often drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Soil Stabilization: The plant's dense root system helps to stabilize soil on slopes or in areas at risk of erosion.
- Winter Interest: Some heather varieties, including this one, retain their foliage color and structure in winter, providing visual interest in dormant months.
- Low Maintenance: Heather is generally low maintenance, requiring minimal fertilization and occasional pruning to keep its shape.
- Cultural Significance: Heathers have a long history in folklore and represent various meanings in different cultural traditions.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral Arrangements: The bright foliage and compact growth habit of Heath make it a stunning addition to floral decorations, providing texture and color contrast.
- Bonsai: Due to its small leaves and ability to be pruned and shaped, Heath is sometimes used in the art of bonsai for a unique, miniature landscape.
- Fabric Dye: Historically, various parts of Heath plants have been used to make natural dyes for fabrics, offering shades of yellow, green, or orange.
- Aquarium Landscaping: When properly preserved, branches of Heath can be used to create naturalistic layouts in aquariums for habitats resembling dry landscapes.
- Craft Material: The woody stems of Heath can be used in crafting, for instance, to create miniature fences or decorative wreaths.
- Insect Repellent: While not scientifically proven, some gardeners use Heath clippings as a natural insect deterrent due to their fragrance.
- Bird Habitat: When planted densely, Heath provides excellent cover for birds, offering shelter and a place to nest.
- Photography Prop: The unique form and color of Heath make it a popular choice among photographers looking for interesting natural subjects.
- Erosion Control: Its characteristic as a groundcover makes Heath useful for stabilizing soil and preventing erosion on slopes.
- Living Roof: Heath can be used on green roofs, contributing to biodiversity and providing extra insulation for buildings.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Heather is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Heather is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Historically, Heather, the most common common name of Calluna vulgaris, has been believed to possess protective qualities, safeguarding people from dangers and bad luck.
- Good Fortune: Heather is also associated with good luck, and carrying a sprig was said to bring good fortune and positive outcomes to endeavors.
- New Beginnings: This plant blooms in late summer, which has made it a symbol for new starts and rejuvenation.
- Solitude: Representing solitary beauty, Heather blooms in the quiet of the moors and is often associated with introspection and inner peace.
- Admiration: The delicate flowers of the heather plant have made it a symbol for admiration and the beauty that can be found in simplicity.
- Independence: The resilience and ability of heather to thrive in harsh conditions symbolize self-reliance and inner strength.
WaterThe common name for Calluna vulgaris 'Hammondii Aureifolia' is Scotch heather. Scotch heather prefers consistent moisture but demands well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Generally, it requires watering once or twice a week, depending on climate and soil conditions. During active growth in the spring and summer, ensure the plant receives about 1 gallon of water per week. In hotter conditions, increase frequency to maintain moist soil. Watering should be done at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
LightScotch heather thrives in a location with full sun to partial shade. It performs best when it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot would be one that receives morning sun and is protected from the intense afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates.
TemperatureScotch heather is hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit in winter and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit in summer. The ideal temperature range for Scotch heather is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which encourages robust growth and vibrant foliage.
PruningPruning Scotch heather is important to promote new growth and maintain a compact shape. Prune just after flowering has finished, typically in late summer or early fall, by cutting back the spent flower spikes. This encourages fresh foliage and prevents the plant from becoming leggy. Prune annually or biennially for the best results.
CleaningNot needed
SoilHeather, the common name for Calluna vulgaris 'Hammondii Aureifolia', thrives in well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6. A mix of peat moss, sand, and loamy soil suits it best to replicate its natural moorland habitat.
RepottingHeather should be repotted every three to four years to refresh the soil and encourage healthy growth. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to prevent water logging.
Humidity & MistingHeather prefers moderate humidity but can tolerate drier air typical of outdoor environments. Consistently high humidity should be avoided to prevent fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, cool temps, and acidic soil for indoor Heather growth.
Outdoor
Plant Heather in acidic soil, full sun to partial shade, and shelter from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
4-6 USDA
Life cycleScotch Heather 'Hammondii Aureifolia' begins its life cycle as a seed, germinating in early spring when conditions are moist and cool. The seedlings establish a root system and develop into small shrubs, gradually growing woody stems and needle-like leaves. Over several years, the plant matures and reaches its full size, typically up to 50 cm high, producing vibrant yellow-green foliage. In late summer to autumn, Scotch Heather blooms, displaying small, bell-shaped, pink to purple flowers that are attractive to bees and other pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules, releasing seeds in autumn which can propagate new plants. Throughout its life, which can extend beyond a decade with proper care, Scotch Heather undergoes seasonal changes but retains its evergreen foliage, adding winter interest to the landscape.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Propogation: The Calluna vulgaris 'Hammondii Aureifolia', commonly known as Scotch heather, is often propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique is usually carried out in late summer or early fall after the new growth has partially matured. To propagate by cuttings, a gardener should select healthy, semi-hardwood stems that are about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 cm) long and strip the leaves from the lower half. It is recommended to dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to enhance root development, then insert the cutting into a well-drained rooting medium, such as a mix of peat and perlite. The cutting should be kept at a consistent humidity level with a clear plastic cover and placed in indirect light until roots have developed, typically within 6 to 8 weeks. After rooting, the new plants can be potted on or planted out as needed.
