Callunavulgaris

Calluna vulgaris, commonly known as common heather or ling, is a species of flowering plant in the heath family Ericaceae. It is a small evergreen shrub native to Europe and parts of western Asia, and is widely cultivated as an ornamental and for groundcover in temperate gardens.

The plant is a low-growing shrub, typically 20 to 50 centimeters tall, though it can reach about a meter under favorable conditions. It has slender, woody stems with tiny evergreen leaves that are scale-like and pressed against the stems. In late summer to autumn, it produces numerous small bell-shaped flowers in dense spikes that range in color from pink to purple.

Calluna vulgaris grows best in acidic, well-drained soils and thrives in full sun. It is commonly found on heathlands, moorlands, and other open, nutrient-poor habitats. It is relatively tolerant of cold winters but does not tolerate lime or heavy, waterlogged soils. The species is long-lived and can be propagated by seeds or by semi-hardwood cuttings; in cultivation, pruning after flowering helps maintain a compact, flowering habit and prevents woody growth.

Cultivars and varieties have been developed for garden use, including forms with white or lighter-colored flowers and varying growth habits. In horticulture, it is valued for year-round interest and for attracting pollinators such as bees. Calluna vulgaris is also used in habitat restoration projects on acidic soils.