Bell Heather
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BELL HEATHER
Erica cinerea
Turning hillsides pink in late summer, Bell Heather’s name is derived from its bell-shaped flowers. It is a major source of nectar for many kinds of insects, including the rare Silver-studded Blue butterfly.
Its dark-pink, bell-shaped flowers are very distinctive, as are the dark green, needle-like leaves arranged in clusters along the stems. Although superficially similar to Cross-leaved Heath, its flowers are smaller and form clusters along the stem, rather than on just one side.
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Where/when to find it
Flowering from July to September, Bell Heather is found across a range of habitats, including heathland, moorland and coastal regions. It is particularly happy on dry, well-drained acidic soils.
Adaptations
Often the primary coloniser after burning, it is frost-resistant, and can tolerate acidic soils. Its narrow needle-like leaves minimise water loss.
Rarity
It is common throughout the UK.
Read more
On Plant Life’s website: Bell Heather
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