Pink Mountainheath

(Phyllodoce empetriformis)

Pink Mountainheath (Phyllodoce empetriformis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Phyllodoce empetriformis, commonly known as Pink Mountainheath or Mountain Heath, is an evergreen subshrub native to alpine and subalpine regions, as well as coniferous forests in the Western United States and Canada. It typically grows to a height of 4-15 inches (not feet) and a width of 0.5-3 feet, forming a low, mat-like ground cover. The leaves of this plant are small, scale-like, and roll under themselves, resembling pine needles, which is an adaptation to its harsh native environment.

Pink Mountainheath is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink and purple that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are clustered at the end of the stems in leaf axils and are quite showy, attracting pollinators such as bees. This plant is used in rock gardens, alpine gardens, and as ground cover in areas with cool summers. It prefers acidic, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from part shade to full sun, although it thrives best in part shade. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Subshrub, Shrub
  • Height: 4-15 feet
  • Width: 0.5-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to alpine and subalpine regions, as well as coniferous forests in the Western United States and Canada

Other Names

Common Names: Mountain Heath, Red Mountainheath, Pink Mountain-Heather

Scientific Names: , Phyllodoce empetriformis, Bryanthus empetriformis, Menziesia empetriformis, Menziesia grahamii,

GBIF Accepted Name: Phyllodoce empetriformis (Sm.) D.Don