Erica verticillata, also known as whorled heath, is a captivating plant with a heather-like appearance. It adds distinctive form and floral display to various garden settings. Its story highlights remarkable resilience.
Distinctive Characteristics of Erica verticillata
Erica verticillata is an upright, strong-growing shrub, typically reaching 1.5 to 2 meters, though some specimens grow up to 3 meters. Its foliage consists of soft, dark green leaves. The plant produces tubular flowers, primarily in shades of pink, from light to deep rose-pink.
These flowers are arranged in whorls along the main stems and near branch tips. While peak flowering occurs from January to March in its native habitat, Erica verticillata can flower intermittently throughout the year. It is also known as marsh heath.
The Extraordinary Comeback Story
The history of Erica verticillata is a compelling story of survival and conservation. Once classified as extinct in the wild, its natural populations in South Africa’s Cape Flats disappeared by the mid-20th century due to urban expansion and agriculture. For nearly a century, it was known only from historical herbarium specimens.
A turning point occurred in the 1980s when horticulturists at Kirstenbosch National Botanic Garden in South Africa rediscovered living specimens in various botanical gardens worldwide, including Protea Park, Kew, and Kirstenbosch itself. These rediscovered clones became the foundation for an ambitious reintroduction program.
Through conservation efforts in botanical gardens and the Millennium Seed Bank, Erica verticillata has been brought back into cultivation and restoration programs in its native Cape Flats Sand Fynbos habitat. This ongoing process demonstrates how collaborative efforts can restore species from the brink of extinction. Its status remains Extinct in the Wild, and it will be re-assessed after surviving three burn cycles in the wild without restocking or replanting.
Growing Erica verticillata Successfully
Light
Erica verticillata thrives in full sun, promoting robust growth and abundant flowering. While it tolerates partial shade, especially morning sun, optimal bloom production requires ample direct sunlight. A bright, well-ventilated position is beneficial. Provide at least six hours of direct light daily.
Soil
This plant requires acidic, well-draining soil. Its natural habitat consists of sandy, nutrient-deficient, and acidic soils. A mix of sand and peat replicates these conditions, ensuring proper drainage and acidity. It is sensitive to high phosphorus levels, so a low-phosphate medium is recommended.
Water
Consistent moisture is important for Erica verticillata, especially during establishment. While it appreciates regular watering, it is intolerant of waterlogging, which can lead to root issues. Allow the soil to partially dry out between waterings to prevent oversaturation. Established plants tolerate some winter moisture.
Temperature and Humidity
Erica verticillata prefers moderate temperatures and tolerates a range of conditions. It is hardy to -6 to -7 degrees Celsius (low 20s Fahrenheit), though lower temperatures may cause severe damage. Around 20 degrees Celsius is suitable for its growth. Maintaining about 60% humidity can also benefit the plant.
Pruning and Fertilizing
Pruning Erica verticillata after its main flowering period maintains its shape and encourages new growth. Remove dead or diseased branches to keep the plant healthy and promote a compact, bushy appearance. For young plants, post-flowering pruning increases bushiness and flower-bearing stems.
Fertilization should be cautious, as these plants adapt to low-nutrient soils. A balanced 3-1-2 fertilizer can be applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Propagating Erica verticillata
Erica verticillata can be propagated through cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings are typically taken during the growing season. Prepare cuttings by removing lower leaves and dipping the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development.
Insert prepared cuttings into a sandy, well-draining soil mix. Consistent moisture and warmth support rooting. While seed propagation is possible, it is more challenging and requires specific conditions, such as smoke treatment for germination. Seedlings are very small initially and require careful handling once they reach about 5mm.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Growers of Erica verticillata may encounter issues. Yellowing leaves can indicate a nutrient imbalance or improper watering, requiring adjustment to fertilization or watering frequency. Over-fertilization, especially with phosphorus, can also lead to problems.
A lack of blooms suggests insufficient light, prompting relocation to a sunnier spot. While generally disease-resistant, Erica verticillata can be susceptible to fungal diseases like Phytophthora root rot in overly wet conditions. Ensure excellent drainage and avoid waterlogging as a primary preventative measure. Regular air circulation also deters fungal issues.