SCOTCH HEATHER Calluna vulgaris

Calluna vulgaris, or heather, is a low-growing evergreen shrub growing to 20 to 50 centimetres (7.9 to 19.7 in) tall, or rarely to 1 metre (39 in) and taller, and is found widely in Europe and Asia Minor on acidic soils in open sunny situations and in moderate shade

Calluna has small scale-leaves (less than 2–3 mm long) borne in opposite and decussate pairs, whereas those of Erica are generally larger and in whorls of 3–4, sometimes 5. It flowers from July to September. Unlike Erica, Calluna sometimes sports double flowers. Calluna is sometimes referred to as Summer (or Autumn) heather to distinguish it from winter or spring flowering species of Erica.

Calluna vulgaris is extremely cold-hardy, surviving severe exposure and freezing conditions well below −20 °C (−4 °F). It is native to Europe, Iceland, the Faroe Islands, and the Azores. It has been introduced into many other places worldwide with suitable climates, including North America, Australia, New Zealand and the Falkland Islands.

Hardiness zones: 3-9

Seeds per pack: 20

Germination: These seeds are very tiny, so they benefit from an indoor sowing to help them germinate and not be washed away with heavy rains and winds. Sow indoors up to 8-12 weeks before last frost. Do not bury the seeds. The seeds germinate in 3-7 weeks.