Sand Heath
(Ceratiola ericoides)
Sand Heath (Ceratiola ericoides)
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brycelee
CC BY 4.0
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brycelee
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CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: brycelee | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: brycelee | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2021-02-28T10:21:08-08:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Ceratiola ericoides, commonly known as Sand Heath, is an evergreen subshrub native to the sandy soils of scrub habitats and pine barrens in the Southeastern United States, particularly in Florida. It typically grows to a height and width of 4-8 feet (1.2-2.4 meters), forming dense thickets. The plant has needle-like leaves that resemble those of the heath family, and although it does not produce conspicuous flowers, it is valued for its fine-textured foliage and its ability to thrive in nutrient-poor, sandy conditions.
Sand Heath is appreciated for its drought tolerance and its role in stabilizing sandy soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and restoration projects in its native range. It is also used in coastal landscapes for its resistance to salt spray. In cultivation, it requires full sun exposure and well-drained, acidic soils. Overwatering or planting in heavy, clay soils can lead to root rot. While it is not commonly found in the nursery trade, it can be a unique addition to native plant gardens where its environmental conditions can be met.CC BY-SA 4.0
Sand Heath is appreciated for its drought tolerance and its role in stabilizing sandy soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and restoration projects in its native range. It is also used in coastal landscapes for its resistance to salt spray. In cultivation, it requires full sun exposure and well-drained, acidic soils. Overwatering or planting in heavy, clay soils can lead to root rot. While it is not commonly found in the nursery trade, it can be a unique addition to native plant gardens where its environmental conditions can be met.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Subshrub, Shrub, Herb
- Height: 4-8 feet
- Width: 4-8 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant
Natural Habitat
Native to scrub habitats and pine barrens in the Southeastern United States, particularly in Florida
Other Names
Common Names: Sandhill-Rosemary, Florida-Rosemary
Scientific Names: , Ceratiola ericoides, Ceratiola falcatula, Ceratiola falcautla, Empetrum aciculare,
GBIF Accepted Name: Ceratiola ericoides Michx.