Heather Erica ciliaris C D Eason

Outstanding Qualities ‘C.D. Eason’ is a selection of Erica cinerea, the bell heather. Although related to Erica carnea (winter heath), bell heather blooms from June to September, producing urn-shaped, bright magenta flowers over its dark green leaves. The leaves of bell heather are rolled and arranged in groups of threes along its stems. Bell heather is much more tolerant of sandy or rocky soils than is winter heath, which makes it a good, neat groundcover for exposed locations. This cultivar was found by C.D. Eason near Broadstone, Dorset, England. Culture Erica cinerea ‘C.D. Eason’ produces the most flowers in full sun, but it grows well in part shade. Well-drained soil is especially important for this species, as it is native to rocky and sandy sites in the British Isles. Soil that is too rich or poorly drained will cause root rot. Bell heather is drought tolerant once it is established, usually after two seasons with regular watering during dry spells. After the blossoms have faded, gather all the branches together, as though you were making a bouquet, and clip them neatly across their tips. This will remove most of the faded flowers and encourage growth from the center of the plant. Growing Habit This evergreen shrub grows 8 to 10 inches high and 16 to 24 inches wide, depending on how it is pruned. If used as a groundcover, gallon-size plants should be set 18 inches on center (closer for those from 4-inch pots). Hardiness USDA zones 6 to 8