Beauty Ladies® Viva Scotch Heather

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

1 - 2 Feet

Mature Spread

2 - 3 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 7

Viva Scotch Heather (Calluna vulgaris Beauty Ladies® ‘Viva’) lights up late-summer and fall gardens with pearl-white blooms that deepen in color as cooler weather arrives. This low-growing shrub stays only 1 to 2 feet tall, while its dense, dark green foliage forms a neat, upright mound perfect for accenting borders and containers. The bright white buds offer a striking contrast against the evergreen leaves, ensuring steady visual interest through multiple seasons. Tough and reliable, Viva Scotch Heather is a top choice for gardeners seeking easy, year-round color that endures breezy fall days and even light winter chills.

Beyond its showy display, Viva Scotch Heather is remarkably low-maintenance and cold tolerant. It is native to regions with acidic soils and thrives in well-drained condition; it adapts easily to partial sun or full sun exposures. Its evergreen nature provides lasting beauty even when flowers are not in bloom, and it is well-suited for mass plantings, foundation planting, and patio displays in containers. Thanks to its compact size, minimal water requirements, and resilience against moderate drought once established, this heather offers dependable charm in smaller landscapes or large-scale designs.

Viva Scotch Heather Care

Plant Viva Scotch Heather in a spot receiving at least four hours of direct sunlight, although it tolerates partial shade. Provide slightly acidic, well-drained soil—mixing in peat moss or a rhododendron-friendly amendment if necessary. Water regularly during the first growing season to help roots take hold, then scale back as it matures, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. A light application of acidic fertilizer (like one designed for azaleas and rhododendrons) in early spring helps promote healthy foliage and robust blooms. Shield young plants from harsh winter winds and consider adding a layer of mulch to maintain consistent soil moisture and temperature.

Remove faded blooms if desired to maintain a clean appearance, though many gardeners enjoy leaving the buds to provide winter interest. Shearing or pinching immediately after the main bloom can help shape the plant and encourage denser growth. In colder climates, a protective burlap wrap may prevent wind burn and cold damage. For container-grown plants, refresh the potting mix every couple of years and ensure excellent drainage to avoid waterlogged roots.

Viva Scotch Heather Spacing

When creating a low hedge or mass planting, space individual plants about 2 to 3 feet apart for a seamless appearance that still allows airflow. For a single row or smaller clusters, the same spacing guidelines ensure healthy growth without overcrowding. When growing in containers, choose pots at least 12 inches wide and deep to accommodate the root system and maintain steady growth.

* Images provided by Qualitree