Erica darleyensis Purple (2 Litre) — Winter Heath / Heather

Erica darleyensis ‘Purple’ is a gorgeous, winter-flowering heather that brings a welcome burst of rich purple blooms when the garden is at its quietest. It forms a neat, evergreen mound of fine, needle-like foliage, smothered in flowers through the colder months—making it perfect for patio pots, doorsteps, window boxes and the front of borders. It’s also a brilliant choice for a Valentine’s gift: long-lasting colour now, and a hardy plant to enjoy for years afterwards.

As a bonus, winter-flowering heathers are a valuable source of nectar and pollen for bees on milder winter days. 

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant in spring or autumn, while the soil is moist and workable. Container-grown plants can be planted most of the year, but avoid frozen or waterlogged ground.

Where to Plant:
Choose a spot in full sun or light/partial shade with well-drained soil. Erica × darleyensis is ideal for pots and containers, border edges, rockeries and gravel gardens. It prefers neutral to acidic conditions, but will usually cope in many gardens as long as drainage is good.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the top of the compost is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants around 30–45 cm apart for a fuller, knitted effect.
• Soil Prep: Improve the area with leaf mould or garden compost. If soil is heavy, add horticultural grit to improve drainage. For pots, use ericaceous compost (or a free-draining compost with added grit).

Watering:
Water well after planting and keep the soil evenly moist while the plant establishes. After that, water during prolonged dry spells (pots will need more regular watering).

Aftercare Tips:

• After flowering, lightly trim to remove faded blooms and keep plants neat and bushy (avoid cutting into old, leafless wood).
• Mulch with leaf mould or similar organic matter to help conserve moisture and improve soil structure.
• Good drainage is key—avoid planting where soil stays wet in winter.

Top Tip:
Plant Erica × darleyensis in groups for a long-lasting carpet of winter colour. It also looks fantastic with spring bulbs for a seasonal display that keeps going.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

Winter – spring (exact timing depends on the mix)

Height:
Approx. 30–45cm

Spread:
Approx. 45–90cm (variety-dependent)

Position:
Full sun / Light shade

Type:

Evergreen shrub (hardy)