Michelle Scotch Heather

Michelle Heather has long-lasting pink flowers that never seem to fade. The upright growth habit of the branches gives Michelle a compact shape that requires little shaping or pruning. Calluna vulgaris ‘Michelle’ will add long-lasting color to a rock garden or mixed seasonal container planting. The fine evergreen foliage is hardy in USDA zones 5-8, although not suited to hot and humid climates of the deep south. 

Scotch Heather makes for a durable groundcover that is drought tolerant and dense growing. Pests and diseases are minimal for Michelle. Deer rarely browse on this woody perennial, although beneficial insects are drawn to the late-season flowers. Hummingbirds and butterflies are also attracted to the rich nectar that Scotch Heather produces.  

Michelle Scotch Heather Care

Heather prefers acidic soil of 6.0 or lower. Heavy clay soil will need amending to provide adequate drainage for the shallow root systems. Water newly planted Heather well the first season, using ½ -1 inch of water a week to help the roots establish. Heather will thrive in full sun but grows well in part shade, where the foliage may remain a lighter green. Fertilize plants in the late summer before flower buds form. Use a granular, slow-release formulation for acid-loving perennials and shrubs.

Shape the shrubs just after the flowers finish blooming in late winter. Michelle Scotch Heather has a natural mounding shape that is easy to maintain by lightly shearing back green growth, staying away from any woody stems. Keep newly planted heather well weeded for the first 2-3 years until the plants grow large enough to shade out and suppress weeds. Michelle Heather will grow well in a container or as part of a larger seasonal planter mix. Ensure that the container you are using has excellent drainage and that the potting mix is formulated for acid-loving plants.

Michelle Scotch Heather Spacing

Michelle is a smaller-growing Calluna vulgaris. The mature height is 16-20 inches with a spread of 12-18 inches. Space plants 12 inches apart on center when planting in groups. Use at least an 8-inch diameter pot when container growing.

Michelle Scotch Heather Information