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Daboecia × scotica 'William Buchanan'

Irish heath 'William Buchanan'

5 year guarantee RHS award of garden merit Perfect for pollinators New
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A low, spreading habit makes this evergreen heather a useful choice for adding year-round structure to rockeries, heath gardens and the front of borders.

Small, glossy dark green leaves cover the fine stems, while clusters of deep red-purple, urn-shaped flowers provide a strong splash of colour from late spring through autumn. The long flowering period makes Daboecia × scotica 'William Buchanan' particularly useful for extending seasonal interest when many other plants are starting to fade.

Grow it in acidic or neutral, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade, where its compact form can spread naturally without taking over.

How to care for Daboecia × scotica 'William Buchanan':

Plant in full sun in moist but well-drained, preferably acidic soil. It can tolerate neutral soil, but avoid chalky or strongly alkaline ground. Add ericaceous compost when planting if the soil is unsuitable, and mulch with leaf mould or other acidic organic matter to help retain moisture.

Water regularly while establishing and during prolonged dry spells, particularly on lighter soils. Once established, it needs little feeding.

Trim lightly after flowering to maintain its compact, spreading shape, taking care not to cut back into old, woody stems.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
0.5m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Position:

Full sun

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

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