Calluna vulgaris 'Spring Torch' is a compact evergreen heather prized for its striking seasonal transitions, emerging in spring with cream and pink tipped new growth that turns vibrant green in summer and finally deepening to bronze in winter. Dense spikes of mauve pink flowers emerge in late summer and persist through fall, attracting pollinators and brightening rock gardens, containers, and acidic beds with continuous texture and color.
Height & Spread: 10 - 14 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Acidic, well drained sandy or peaty soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; avoid overwatering, prefers slightly dry conditions once established
Deer Resistance: Foliage and tough texture make it naturally deer resistant
Native Status
Calluna vulgaris, or Scotch heather, is native to Europe and western Asia and naturalized in some parts of North America. 'Spring Torch' is a cultivated variety bred for ornamental qualities.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Provides abundant nectar to honeybees and wild bees like bumblebees and mining bees late into the season when few other plants bloom.
Butterflies
- Visited by small late season butterflies including Painted Ladies and Cabbage Whites looking for late nectar.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports predatory wasps and hoverflies that overwinter near woody stems and foliage matting.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for natural spread and airflow.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for alpine gardens, borders, containers, and low maintenance acidic mass plantings.
Companion Plants
- Vaccinium angustifolium (Lowbush Blueberry) - Provides early spring flowers and fall color to complement the long interest of Calluna.
- Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania Sedge) - Soft grassy mounds unify heather groupings and stabilize acidic beds.
- Gaultheria procumbens (Wintergreen) - Ground hugging habit with red berries and glossy leaves complements heather in form and seasonality.
- Andromeda polifolia (Bog Rosemary) - Shares similar soil and light needs with soft silvery foliage that contrasts the heather's texture.
- Erica carnea 'Springwood White' - Extends the blooming season and contrasts nicely with pink flowers of 'Spring Torch'.