Calluna vulgaris is the only species in the genus Calluna in the family Ericaceae. Widely known as Common Heather, Ling or Heather. There are hundreds of cultivars today, with new cultivar being added each year. Found widely in Europe and Asia Minor. Grows well in sun or in moderate shade, well-drained, fertile, acidic soil. They can either be planted in groups in heather beds or combined with other plant like conifers for year-round color. They can also be grown in containers.
Cultivars include Alba Rigida, Annemarie, Darkness, My Dream, Peter Sparkes, Wickwar Flame, Elsie Purnell, Mullion, Beoley Crimson, Boskoop, Cuprea, Firefly and Long White.
Heather is a popular ornamental plants in garden and also for landscaping. Different cultivars have different colors ranging from white, pink, different shades of purple, including red and orange. Flowering season are from late July to November in Northern Hemisphere.
Propagation of Calluna are through semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or layer in spring. Clip flowers after flowering. Grey mould and root rot are the things to look out for when planting Calluna.