Beauty Ladies® Scarlet Scotch Heather

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

1 - 2 Feet

Mature Spread

2 - 3 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 7

Scarlet Scotch Heather (Calluna vulgaris Beauty Ladies® ‘Scarlet’) offers a burst of red-hued blooms that intensify as cooler days arrive. Rising only 1 to 2 feet, this compact evergreen shrub maintains a neat, upright form, complemented by dark green foliage that stays lush year-round. Bright buds appear from late summer into autumn, adding seasonal color to patio planters, front steps, and garden beds. This robust heather endures chilly conditions with minimal care, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking reliable warmth and texture during the fall months.

Not only does Scarlet Scotch Heather dazzle with its fiery buds, but it also provides year-round interest thanks to its evergreen nature and tidy habit. Originating from temperate climates, it is well-suited for zones 5 to 7 and stands up to moderate drought and occasional cold snaps. Plant it en masse for a glowing groundcover effect, use it as a low-maintenance border accent, or grow it in containers where its color can shine alongside other fall favorites. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this heather delivers cheerful color that endures well beyond summer.

Scarlet Scotch Heather Care

Place Scarlet Scotch Heather in full sun to partial sun, ensuring at least four hours of direct sunlight each day. Provide acidic, well-draining soil—adding peat moss or an ericaceous mix if needed—and water regularly until the plant is established. Once settled, it tolerates occasional dryness but benefits from consistently moist soil. Feed in spring with an acidic fertilizer such as one formulated for rhododendrons. Consider adding a thin layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and moderate soil temperature.

Light pruning after the main bloom can help maintain size and a dense appearance. Avoid cutting into older wood, which may not regrow new foliage. In colder climates, shelter the plant from harsh winds and consider using a protective cover if frost is severe. Container-grown plants may need repotting every couple of years to refresh the potting mix and ensure healthy root development.

Scarlet Scotch Heather Spacing

Allow about 2 to 3 feet between each plant when creating a low hedge or mass planting, giving them space to spread without overcrowding. If growing in containers, select a pot at least 12 inches wide and deep to accommodate the plant’s root system and promote steady growth.

* images courtesy of Qualitree