Calluna vulgaris 'Dark Beauty' is a compact evergreen heather known for its vibrant dark crimson flower spikes that bloom from late summer into fall. Its fine needle like foliage adds year round texture and changes to deep bronze hues in winter making it a standout in acidic well drained soils and low maintenance landscapes.
Height & Spread: 10 - 12 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Acidic, sandy or peaty, well drained soils
Watering Needs: Moderate; do not allow soil to fully dry out
Deer Resistance: Typically avoided by deer due to resinous foliage
Native Status
Native to Europe and western Asia, Calluna vulgaris is widely adapted and thrives in heathlands and moorlands. It is not native to North America but performs well in similar acidic environments.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Provides rich nectar for honeybees and bumblebees during late summer when other sources are scarce.
Butterflies
- Attracts late flying butterflies like Red Admirals and Painted Ladies drawn to its dense floral clusters.
Moths
- Visited by species like the Silver Y and Angle Shades for late season nectar under twilight conditions.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for low matting form and full coverage in acidic borders.
Landscape Placement:
- Perfect for rock gardens, ericaceous beds, and coastal landscapes with sandy lean soils.
Companion Plants
- Daboecia cantabrica (Irish Bell Heather) - Pairs with similar soil and moisture needs while contrasting in floral shape and height.
- Vaccinium angustifolium (Lowbush Blueberry) - Provides spring flowers, summer berries, and scarlet fall foliage in harmony with heather habitats.
- Gaultheria procumbens (Wintergreen) - Offers glossy foliage, red berries, and spreads as an acidic groundcover complementing the heather’s texture.
- Andromeda polifolia (Bog Rosemary) - Pale blue flowers and fine foliage accent the crimson spikes of 'Dark Beauty' in cool acidic soils.
- Pinus mugo (Dwarf Mugo Pine) - Adds evergreen form and structure while thriving in similarly lean soils and sunny slopes.