Calluna vulgaris Boskoop - Heather

Calluna vulgaris 'Boskoop' is a summer heather forming a low bush, covered with mauve flowers at the end of summer, from August to October. It remains beautiful even in winter when other plants and bushes are dormant.

Originating from Europe, Calluna vulgaris belongs to the Ericaceae family. The 'Boskoop' variety forms a ground cover 30 cm to 45 cm (11.8 in to 17.7 in) in height and 40 cm to 60 cm (15.7 in to 23.6 in) in width. Its golden foliage is topped with terminal raceme flowers, composed of mauve spikes that tend towards pink. They bloom from August to October. Its seeds are few in number. The golden-coloured leaves are opposite and have a scale-like shape.

Resistant up to -15° C (5° F), Calluna vulgaris 'Boskoop' thrives in a sunny or semi-shaded location. Plant it in light, humus-rich, slightly acidic and moist soil.

Use it as ground cover at the base of other ericaceous shrubs, such as rhododendrons, azaleas or andromedas. It pairs well with cyclamens to enhance these taller bushes.