Origin
Erica radicans (L.Guthrie) E.G.H.Oliv. subsp. schlechteri (N.E.Br.) E.G.H.Oliv. is a plant species that belongs to the Ericaceae family and is a subspecies of Erica radicans. This plant is native to South Africa, where it grows in the Western and Eastern Cape Province.
Common Names
The plant Erica radicans (L.Guthrie) E.G.H.Oliv. subsp. schlechteri (N.E.Br.) E.G.H.Oliv. has several common names, including creeping heath, creeping erica, traily heath, and schlechter's heath.
Uses
Erica radicans (L.Guthrie) E.G.H.Oliv. subsp. schlechteri (N.E.Br.) E.G.H.Oliv. is a popular ornamental plant that is often used in rock gardens, borders, and containers due to its dense and low-growth habit. It also makes a great ground cover plant, particularly for sunny, dry spots with poor soil. Moreover, the plant is known for attracting birds and butterflies to the garden.
General Appearance
Erica radicans (L.Guthrie) E.G.H.Oliv. subsp. schlechteri (N.E.Br.) E.G.H.Oliv. is a evergreen shrub that grows up to 15 cm in height and can spread up to 1 meter. It has small, needle-like leaves that are dark green, almost black in color, and appear crowded on branches. This plant produces small, bell-shaped flowers that are pinkish-lilac in color, which bloom in early summer and last to early autumn. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Light Requirements
Erica radicans (L.Guthrie) E.G.H.Oliv. subsp. schlechteri (N.E.Br.) E.G.H.Oliv. grows best in full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate direct sunlight for several hours a day, as long as the temperature isn't too high. The plant may not flower as well in heavy shade, but it will still grow and thrive.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to South Africa, which has a Mediterranean climate. It prefers mild temperatures, around 15-20°C (59-68°F) during the day and 5-10°C (41-50°F) at night. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it may not grow as fast or flower as well. In warmer climates, the plant can be grown in partial shade or with light shading during the hottest part of the day.
Soil Requirements
Erica radicans (L.Guthrie) E.G.H.Oliv. subsp. schlechteri (N.E.Br.) E.G.H.Oliv. prefers a well-draining, acidic soil with a pH of 4.5-5.5. It can grow in sandy or loamy soils, as long as they are well-draining. The plant doesn't tolerate waterlogged soil, so it's important to ensure good drainage. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve drainage and add nutrients. The plant is tolerant of some drought, but it may need to be watered during dry periods.
Cultivation Methods
Erica radicans subsp. schlechteri is a low growing plant that requires full sun to partial shade, and well-drained acidic soil with a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5. It can be grown in containers, borders or as ground cover in rock gardens. The plant can withstand moderate wind, heat and drought.
Watering Needs
It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water should be applied directly to the soil and not sprayed on the foliage. During the growing season, water thoroughly once every two weeks. In the winter months, reduce the amount of watering to once a month.
Fertilization
Erica radicans subsp. schlechteri requires little fertilization. Use a slow-release, low-nitrogen feed in the spring. Avoid using fertilizer during the winter months as this can lead to new growth that is susceptible to frost damage.
Pruning
Prune the plant after flowering to encourage bushy growth. Pinch out the tips of the new growth to encourage lateral branches. Remove any dead or diseased wood. Avoid pruning heavily as this can damage the plant.
Propagation of Erica radicans subsp. schlechteri
Erica radicans subsp. schlechteri can be propagated through both seeds and cuttings. Here are detailed methods of propagation:
Propagation by Seed
Collect seed from a mature plant in the late summer or early autumn. Sow the seeds in a mixture of peat moss and perlite or sand and keep them moist. Germination may take several weeks or even months. Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, they can be potted on and grown on in a protected environment for the first winter. Transplant them in the spring to their permanent growing location and provide suitable growing conditions.
Propagation by Cuttings
The best time to take cuttings from Erica radicans subsp. schlechteri is in late spring or early summer. Take cuttings from healthy, disease-free plants that have not started to develop flower buds. The cuttings should be 2-4 inches long with at least two pairs of leaves. Remove the lower pair of leaves and dip the stem in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and water well. Place the pot in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. After several weeks, the cuttings should begin to root. Once they have rooted, transplant them to their final growing location.
Disease Management
Erica radicans subsp. schlechteri is generally a healthy plant, but it can be affected by certain diseases if proper care is not taken. The common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Phytophthora root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To prevent this disease, make sure the plant is planted in well-draining soil and water it only when the topsoil is dry.
- Botrytis blight: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to turn brown and eventually die. To prevent this disease, avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
- Canker: This is a fungal disease that causes sunken lesions on the stems of the plant. To prevent this disease, prune the affected stems and dispose of them properly.
Pest Management
Erica radicans subsp. schlechteri can also be affected by certain pests, including:
- Aphids: These are tiny insects that suck on the leaves of the plant, causing them to curl and wilt. To control aphids, spray the plant with a solution of water and dish soap or insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These are small pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing speckled leaves that eventually turn yellow and fall off. To control spider mites, spray the plant with water or use a miticide.
- Mealybugs: These are small, white insects that suck on the plant's sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To control mealybugs, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, or use an insecticidal soap.
