Firefly Heather

Few plants rival the Firefly heather as a groundcover to bring brilliant color and year-round interest to a landscape. This evergreen shrub showcases lime, chartreuse, and primrose yellow foliage in spring to summer before transforming into a brilliant orange and red then deeper red into fall and winter. Spires of semi-double bright purple-pink flowers appear late in the summer. The long-lived Firefly heather is known scientifically as Calluna vulgaris Firefly. The Firefly heather is a fairly easy to grow plant, making it an excellent addition to low-maintenance landscapes. The flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds, so it is also a groundcover option for pollinator gardens. Brilliant foliage makes the Firefly heather a great way to add winter color to a landscape and contrast with green evergreens or fill in sparse areas. It is a solid performer in rock and cottage gardens and on slopes. Firefly Heather Care The Firefly heather will perform best and achieve the most brilliant color possible in full sun, although part shade in the heat of summer can keep the plant healthier. It grows well in moist and cool climates and prefers sandy or gravelly soils that are moist, acidic, and well-drained. Protect the heather from strong winds, if possible, and mulch with peat moss or another organic material to keep the soil from drying out. Water new plants regularly during hot weather and check established plants for occasional watering during extended dry spells. Prune the Firefly heather lightly each year in early spring before new growth emerges. Without this tidying up, the plant will start to look scraggly. Firefly Heather Spacing The Firefly heather grows about 18 inches high and 24 inches wide. Space plants as far apart as this maximum width to ensure good air circulation. Stick to the 24 inch spacing if you want plants to eventually mound together.