Heather Calluna vulgaris 'Mullion'
ABOUT
Calluna vulgaris 'Mullion', more commonly known as Scotch heather, is a small, evergreen shrub that is admired for its fine-textured foliage and colorful blooms. The leaves are tiny, scale-like, and densely packed on the shoots, creating a rough, carpet-like appearance. They are often a mid-green hue, providing a lush background for the flowers. The Scotch heather blooms are small, bell-shaped, and typically borne in racemes, which means they form a cluster along the upper part of the stems. These tiny flowers can range in color from white to pink and even purplish tones, depending on the specific variety and environmental factors. They are notorious for attracting a range of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which dance between the flowers seeking nectar. Scotch heather is especially well-regarded for its hardiness and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions, often seen carpeting hillsides with color. The plant generally has a compact, mounding form, with the branches creating a dense mass that adds texture and year-round interest to gardens and landscapes. It is also used for its contrast in color and texture in rock gardens, as ground cover, and in borders.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Scotch Heather, Ling Heather, Scottish Heather, Common Heather
Common names
Calluna vulgaris.
ToxicityTo humans
Heather is generally not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting heather. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, so it is always wise to exercise caution and not consume plants unless they are known to be safe and are prepared appropriately.
To pets
Heather is generally not considered toxic to pets either. It is unlikely that pets would experience adverse effects from ingesting heather. However, as with humans, individual sensitivities may exist, and it's always best to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants to avoid any potential gastrointestinal upset or other issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Landscape beauty: Calluna vulgaris 'Mullion', commonly known as Heather, adds vibrant color and textural contrast to gardens and landscapes.
- Drought tolerance: Heather is relatively drought-tolerant once established, making it a good choice for dry climates and water-wise gardens.
- Low maintenance: This plant often requires minimal care, apart from occasional pruning to keep it compact and healthy.
- Wildlife attraction: Heather plants are known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local biodiversity.
- Year-round interest: With evergreen varieties, Heather provides visual interest throughout the year, even when other plants are dormant.
- Soil stabilization: The robust root systems of Heather can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and banks.
- Tolerates poor soil: It can thrive in poor soil conditions where other plants might struggle, making it a versatile garden choice.
- Winter hardiness: Heather is known for its ability to withstand cold temperatures, making it suitable for planting in many temperate regions.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Calluna vulgaris, commonly known as heather, has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Diuretic: Heather is also known for its diuretic effect, helping to increase the passing of urine.
- Antiseptic: The plant may have antiseptic qualities, making it potentially useful for cleaning wounds.
- Mild sedative: Heather has been utilized for its mild sedative effects, possibly aiding in sleep and relaxation.
- Antimicrobial: Components of Calluna vulgaris might exhibit antimicrobial activity against certain pathogens.
- Detoxifying: Traditional use includes detoxification and cleansing of the urinary tract.
- Arthritis and rheumatism: Heather has been used in folk medicine to address symptoms related to arthritis and rheumatism due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Calluna vulgaris 'Mullion', commonly known as heather, can be used as a natural dye, providing shades of yellow, green, and orange depending on the mordant used.
- Heather is often incorporated into jewelry, with the dried flowers encased in resin to create unique pendants and earrings.
- The plant can serve as an excellent ground cover in gardens, preventing soil erosion and suppressing weed growth.
- Heather twigs were traditionally used for thatching roofs in certain regions, providing both insulation and a unique aesthetic.
- The flowers of heather are used to make heather beer, a traditional alcoholic beverage in some parts of Europe.
- Dried heather is utilized in crafting brooms and brushes, especially in regions where it grows abundantly.
- Biomass from heather can be used as a substrate for cultivating mushrooms, providing the necessary nutrients and structure for growth.
- Heather can be used in the construction of bee hotels, providing an attractive habitat for solitary bees for pollination purposes.
- In the art of bonsai, heather can be trained into miniature tree forms, offering a unique challenge and aesthetic to enthusiasts.
- When dried, heather stems can be woven into decorative baskets and ornaments.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiHeather is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityHeather is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Calluna vulgaris, commonly known as Heather, has been associated with protection since ancient times, as it was believed to guard against evil and malevolent forces.
- Good Luck: Heather is often considered a good luck charm, particularly in Scotland, where it's thought to bring good fortune to those who keep it close.
- Solitude: Due to its growth in barren and solitary places, Heather has come to symbolize solitude and the ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
- Admiration: Gifting Heather may signify admiration for someone's beauty or resilience.
- Dreams: Some traditions hold that Heather represents the manifestation of dreams into reality, likely because of its lush, dream-like landscapes when it blooms en masse.
WaterHeather, commonly known as Calluna vulgaris 'Mullion', requires consistent moisture but does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so it's important to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Depending on the climate and weather conditions, watering may be necessary every few days to once a week; providing approximately 1 gallon of water per plant each time is a good rule of thumb. During hot and dry spells, watering frequency should be increased, whereas in cooler or rainy periods, it should be reduced to avoid overwatering.
LightHeather thrives best in full sun to partial shade, so the ideal spot for Calluna vulgaris 'Mullion' would receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. However, in regions with very intense sun, light afternoon shade can help protect the plant from scorching.
TemperatureHeather is quite resilient but prefers moderate climates. Calluna vulgaris 'Mullion' can generally survive in temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 75°F, but the ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 70°F. Extreme temperature fluctuations outside of this range could harm the plant.
PruningHeather benefits from light pruning to promote bushy growth and prevent the plant from becoming woody. Prune Calluna vulgaris 'Mullion' immediately after flowering, typically in late summer or fall, cutting back the flowered spikes by about one-third. Annual pruning will help maintain the plant's shape and encourage vibrant new growth for the following season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the common Heather is one that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, sand, and loamy soil in equal parts is ideal. Heather prefers acidic soil with a pH of around 4.5 to 5.5.
RepottingHeather, or Calluna vulgaris 'Mullion', should be repotted every 2 to 3 years. The best time for repotting is in the spring when the plant is not in bloom.
Humidity & MistingHeather prefers moderate to high humidity levels. Maintaining a humidity level around 40-60% is ideal for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and acidic soil.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained, acidic soil; full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
4-6 USDA
Life cycleCalluna vulgaris 'Mullion', commonly known as Heather, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate, preferably in acidic soil with full sunlight to partial shade. Seedlings emerge and establish a root system, while shoots develop into characteristic woody stems. The plant grows and matures, forming dense evergreen shrubs with small, scale-like leaves. Heather typically blooms from late summer to fall, with 'Mullion' producing mauve to purple flowers that attract pollinators and are crucial for the reproductive phase. After pollination, seeds form and are dispersed, closing the reproductive cycle. The plant has an extensive lifespan and can thrive for many years, with some instances of plants living for decades if the conditions are suitable.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to autumn
Propogation: Calluna vulgaris 'Mullion', commonly known as Scotch heather, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time for taking cuttings is in late summer to early fall, when the plant's growth begins to slow, but before the stem tissue hardens entirely. To propagate, select a healthy non-flowering shoot and cut a piece around 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long, just below a node. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and insert it into a mix of peat and perlite. The cutting should be placed in a well-ventilated area with indirect sunlight and kept consistently moist. Roots usually develop within 4 to 8 weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before planting out.
