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Erica cinerea Bell Heather or Twisted Heath are late spring and summer bloomers with well-proportioned shaped and usually stiff, slender branches. They come from western Europe, southwestern Norway, southern Portugal and northwestern Italy. There is a naturalized stand on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. Most cultivars are bushes from 6" to 18" tall. Flower colors vary greatly and are the flashiest of the heathers. Colors range from white to almost black, foliage from golds to very dark green. This group is handsome and spectacular in bloom. They can be covered with hundreds of flowers. Best in acid soil and with some winter protection in harsh climates, although they usually recover from winter damage with a severe pruning in spring. It is worth mentioning that many of our were severely damaged at 5F (we are in Zone 7) in an early December freeze because they did not harden off at all prior to the unusual cold spell. They stem split to the ground. Others that were supposed to be Zone 7 plants fared better. Hardiness is relative to the immediate location and conditions. Cinereas are more difficult heaths to establish. Dry winds can desiccate foliage, so plant in a protected spot. Most heather losses are in this family of plants usually happening when a newly planted one dries out while getting established. Sharp drainage is very important to its roots. Usually tough once established. Zone 5 (-20 degrees) and warmer. |