Erica gracilis
TAXONOMY
FamilyEricaceae
GenusErica
Zone9
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Erica gracilis, commonly known as Cape Heath, is a flowering plant in the family Ericaceae. It is native to South Africa and is known for its vibrant pink to red flowers. This plant thrives in subtropical climates and is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers. It has a dormancy period of about 2 months during the winter.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Ericoides Tenuissimum
Slender Heath
Erica imbecilla
Erica neglecta
Erica tenera
Erica tenuissima
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature18° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy2 Months
pH5.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Erica gracilis requires bright, indirect light and moderate temperatures. It prefers a humid environment and should be watered when the soil partially dries out. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely. This plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors, making it versatile for various settings.Soil
Erica gracilis prefers well-draining loam soil with a slightly acidic pH. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the plant. A mix of peat and sand can also be beneficial for this plant.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and vibrant flowers.Repotting
Repot Erica gracilis every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil mix.Propagation
Propagate Erica gracilis through cuttings. Take cuttings in late spring or early summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and provide indirect light until roots develop.Pruning
Prune Erica gracilis after the flowering period to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim back overgrown areas. Regular pruning helps keep the plant healthy and promotes more blooms.Toxicity
Erica gracilis is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always best to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to avoid any accidental ingestion.Additional
Erica gracilis can benefit from occasional misting to maintain humidity levels, especially in dry indoor environments. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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