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Erica oatesii 'Winter Fire'

This article was provided by 'Plant Growers Australia'

Botanical Name: Erica oatesii'Winter Fire'

Size: Height 1.2m x Spread 1m

Aspect: Full sun.

This beautiful evergreen shrub belongs to the Erica family, commonly known as heath. This large genus comprises of over 800 species of small leafed, free flowering shrubs as well as a few trees. The vast majority are native to South Africa whilst the remainder occurring in other regions of Africa or in Europe.

E. 'Winter Fire' is a particularly stunning hybrid offering a neat and compact form. Bearing a profusion of bright fire-red tubular flowers beginning during late winter and continuing on through into spring.

Cultural Notes: Select a warm, sunny site in a free draining soil. Drought tolerant although mulching and the occasional deep watering during extended dry periods will increase overall plant performance. A light prune after flowering will keep your plant vigorous and encourage further flower production. Use a slow release fertiliser during early spring. Like most heaths, E. 'Winter Fire' dislikes lime or any kind of animal manure and is thus best planted in beds with plants that do not require such additions to the soil such as azaleas and rhododendrons.

Landscape Ideas: Can be used in native or cottage style gardens providing care is given not to plant alongside other shrubs or perennials that may require applications of lime or animal manure. Space a few plants around the garden to add some vibrant colour to the late dreary days of winter when little else is performing. Responds well to clipping.