Calluna vulgaris 'Dark Beauty'

The Calluna vulgaris 'Dark Beauty' is a beautiful and versatile plant known by many names, including heather, scotch heather, scots heather, and ling. With its stunning dark pink-red and purple-dark purple flowers, it is sure to add a pop of color to any garden.

This particular variety of heather has triangular-shaped leaves with an entire leaf margin, giving it a unique and attractive appearance. The leaves are a dark green color, which contrasts beautifully with the deep hues of the flowers. As an evergreen plant, the 'Dark Beauty' heather is able to provide year-round interest and color to your garden.

One of the notable features of this heather is its hardiness. It can thrive in USDA zones 5 and 6, making it a great choice for gardeners in cooler climates. The plant is known to withstand harsh winter conditions, ensuring it will continue to thrive year after year.

In terms of light requirements, the 'Dark Beauty' heather prefers sunny conditions. It is best to plant it in an area of your garden that receives full sun exposure. Additionally, this heather has specific soil pH requirements. It thrives in acidic soil with a pH level lower than 4.5 and can tolerate slightly acidic soil with a pH level of 4.5-6.5. This makes it important to consider the soil composition in your garden before planting this particular variety.

While the 'Dark Beauty' heather does not have a noticeable scent, it more than makes up for it with its stunning visual appeal. The flowers are arranged in racemes, adding a touch of elegance to the plant's overall appearance. The blooming period for this variety typically occurs from August to October, making it a late-season showstopper in your garden.

It is worth noting that the 'Dark Beauty' heather is toxic if consumed. This means that it should be kept away from children and pets, or planted in an area where they will not have access to it.

In terms of moisture requirements, this heather prefers well-drained soil to prevent any waterlogging issues. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including peaty, sandy, and humus-rich soil.

Overall, the Calluna vulgaris 'Dark Beauty' is a stunning and versatile plant that can enhance the beauty of any garden. Its dark pink-red and purple-dark purple flowers, combined with its evergreen foliage, make it a standout choice for those looking to add color and interest to their landscape. With proper care and attention to its specific requirements, this heather will reward you with its vibrant display for years to come.

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