Calluna vulgaris Aphrodite (Heather)
Calluna vulgaris ‘Aphrodite’ is a “bud-blooming” heather of upright bushy habit, producing long-lasting, bright red buds that do not open fully from late summer to frost (September-November). They contrast nicely with the dark green, evergreen foliage.
Calluna vulgaris 'Aphrodite' is a "bud-blooming" heather of upright bushy habit, producing long-lasting, bright red buds that do not open fully from late summer to frost (September-November). They contrast nicely with the dark green, evergreen foliage.
- Grows up to 10-12 in. tall (25-30 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm).
- Performs best in full sun in sandy or gravelly, acidic, moist, well-drained soils. Part shade is welcomed in hot summer areas. Moist and cool climates are preferred. Do not let the soil dry out! Protect your plants from strong winds. Mulch with peat moss.
- Easy to grow, this plant is a welcomed addition to beds and borders, banks and slopes, city or cottage gardens, and makes an excellent groundcover. Combines well with dwarf conifers and deciduous shrubs.
- Watch for spider mites, oystershell scale or root rot.
- Callunas need annual pruning or they become straggly. Prune in spring before the new growth appears.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 5 – 8 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones | 5 – 7 |
| Climate Zones | 1A, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 15, 16, 17 |
| Plant Type | Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Calluna – Heathers, Erica and Calluna |
| Exposure | Full Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Late)Fall |
| Height | 10" – 1' (25cm – 30cm) |
| Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
| Spacing | 18″ – 20″ (45cm – 50cm) |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
| Tolerance | Deer |
| Garden Uses | Banks and Slopes, Beds and Borders, Ground Covers |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |