Dorset Heath

A delightful evergreen dwarf shrub, though technically not a conifer, but often associated with conifer plantings for groundcover, particularly in acid-loving schemes. It forms a low-growing, spreading mat, typically reaching an ultimate height of 20-30 cm with a spread of 45-60 cm. It is covered in masses of urn-shaped, pink to purple flowers from July to October, providing late-season colour. Hardy in the UK (H4), it thrives in full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained, acidic soil. It is excellent for rock gardens, front of borders, or mass planting for groundcover, attracting pollinators. Requires little maintenance once established.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct.