Spanish heath
| Botanical Name | Erica lusitanica |
|---|---|
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Origin | South-west Europe |
Identification
Erect shrub to 2 m high, occasionally with trunk > 15 cm diameter. Shoots densely hairy. Leaves in whorls of 3-4, without stalk, 3-7 mm long. Flowers in densely arranged lateral racemes. Corolla/petals 3-5 mm long, tubular-campanulate, white except for rose or pink flush outside in bud. Flowers Mar-Dec.Habitats
Abundant and widespread, especially in areas with moderate to high rainfall. Hillside pastures, shrubland, grassland, open disturbed habitats such as land slips and roadsides. Sea level to 1000m.Impact to Biota and Ecosystems
Increasing, a weed of roadside banks.Management
|
Management |
|
| Physical Control |
Hand pull seedlings. Fell shrubs or grub out - usually will not reshoot. |
| Disposal | |
| Chemical Control |
(i) 2,4-D Ethylhexylester Ester (controls broadleaf species; ineffective on grasses). Spot spray. Apply to achieve full coverage during active spring growth. Rate - 500 mls 2,4-D/100 litres water. |
|
Biological Control |
|
| Recommended Approach |
Physical control methods are preferred. |