Calluna vulgaris

Calluna vulgaris

Plant Family

Ericaceae

Botanical Description

Heather is an evergreen shrub growing 20-50 cm tall with small scale-like leaves and spikes of small pink to purple bell-shaped flowers blooming late summer to autumn.

Cautions

Generally safe in moderate amounts. Limited research. Not recommended during pregnancy without guidance.

Habitat

Heaths, moors, bogs, open woodlands on acidic soils.

Harvest Instructions

Flowering tops harvested when in bloom.

Geographic Distribution

Native to Europe, including Iceland and British Isles. Naturalized in North America.

Growth Conditions

Full sun. Acidic, well-drained, poor soil. Very hardy.

Plant Size

20-50 cm

Effects on the Body

Mild diuretic and urinary antiseptic. Traditional use for urinary tract and respiratory complaints. Anti-inflammatory.

Active Constituents

Arbutin, flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, quercetin.

Safety Information

Dosage

Tea: 1-2 teaspoons dried flowering tops in hot water. Traditional use.

Culinary Use

Flowers used to make heather ale and heather honey is highly prized.

Folklore & Historical Use

Symbol of good luck in Scotland. Used in broom-making. Important source of nectar for bees.

Scientific Research

Limited clinical research available. Preclinical studies show antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Contains arbutin similar to bearberry. German Commission E lists for urinary tract complaints.