Natural England

Natural England

Gardening with Wildlife in Mind

The Plant Press

© 2006-2010. Database provided and managed on behalf of Natural England by The Plant Press. Designed and implemented by Ideal Integration Ltd

 

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Cross-leaved heath - Erica tetralix

Cross-leaved heath - Erica tetralixCross-leaved heath - Erica tetralix
© Chris Gomersall
UK distribution - East Anglia, Midlands, North, South East, South West

This is a low, spreading, evergreen shrub with narrow grey-green leaves in whorls of four around the stem.

Cross-leaved heath is a native plant found in wet heaths and mires, and therefore suitable for moister parts of an ericaceous bed. It is good for bees. The small bell-shaped, pink flowers are arranged in large clusters and bloom until late in the year. The mahogany-brown seedheads that follow are retained well into winter.

Animals

Buff-tailed bumble bee, Common carder bumble bee, Honey bee, Red mason bee, Red-tailed bumble bee, Ruby tiger moth, White-tailed bumble bee, Wool-carder bee

FoliageGrey
FlowerPink, June to September
MoistureAverage (Average)
SunlightFull sun to Part-shadeFull sun to Part-shade (Full sun to Part-shade)
OriginNative
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