Briar Root
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(Erica strigosa)
Briar Root (Erica strigosa)
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desertnaturalist
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
desertnaturalist
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Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: desertnaturalist | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: desertnaturalist | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2021-09-24T01:41:01-07:00 |
Summary
Erica strigosa, commonly known as Briar Root, is an evergreen shrub native to the fynbos region of South Africa. It typically grows to a height and width of 2 feet (0.6 meters), forming a dense, bushy mound. The plant is characterized by its needle-like foliage and small bell-shaped flowers, which come in shades of pink and purple and are particularly showy during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. The flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators, adding to the ecological value of the plant.
Erica strigosa is often used in rock gardens, as a ground cover, or in containers, where its adaptability to full sun to part shade is advantageous. It thrives in acidic, well-drained soils and is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal pruning. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. This species is not known for aggressive roots. Gardeners should be aware that Erica strigosa is not frost-tolerant and may require protection in colder climates.CC BY-SA 4.0
Erica strigosa is often used in rock gardens, as a ground cover, or in containers, where its adaptability to full sun to part shade is advantageous. It thrives in acidic, well-drained soils and is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal pruning. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. This species is not known for aggressive roots. Gardeners should be aware that Erica strigosa is not frost-tolerant and may require protection in colder climates.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 1-2 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Pink, Purple
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant
Natural Habitat
Native to the fynbos region of South Africa
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: Erica strigosa, Erica lasiophylla, Erica pilulifera, Erica praecox, Erica scabriuscula, Erica axillaris, Erica chamaetetralix, Ericodes strigosum, Ericoides strigosum
GBIF Accepted Name: Erica strigosa Aiton