Spring Heath Winter Heath

Spring heath (Erica carnea, Ericaceae) is a low-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub from European mountains, forming dense mats and cushions about 10 inches tall. Needle-like leaves (8 millimeters) are arranged in whorls of four. Small urn-shaped flesh-colored to pink flowers bloom over an extended period from fall through spring, often appearing through melting snow in alpine habitats.

Spring heath grows in full sun on acid soil, though it is more lime-tolerant than most Ericaceae, and prefers cool summers, hardy in Zones 5a to 8b. Annual pruning after flowering is required to maintain compact growth. Over 100 cultivars are named, spanning white through pink shades to deep purple. Selections include 'December Red,' 'Springwood Pink,' 'Springwood White,' and 'Vivelli.'