How to Grow Wickwar Flame Heather
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Wickwar Flame Heather
Calluna vulgaris 'Wickwar Flame'
shrubWickwar Flame is a striking cultivar of common heather featuring vibrant orange-red foliage that intensifies in cooler temperatures, creating a dramatic display throughout the year. It produces small purple-pink flowers in late summer to fall, contrasting beautifully with its fiery foliage. This evergreen shrub is compact and low-growing, making it ideal for rock gardens, borders, and ornamental landscapes.
When should you plant Wickwar Flame Heather in your zone?
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Example Wickwar Flame Heather timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Wickwar Flame Heather
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Wickwar Flame Heather
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Wickwar Flame Heather dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-8, with foliage color most vibrant in cooler zones
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Get my Wickwar Flame Heather timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-6 monthsNewly planted seedling or young transplant with emerging shoots and developing root system
Water regularly to establish roots; protect from wind; mulch lightly with sandy material
Vegetative Growth
6-18 monthsPlant develops compact, bushy form with vibrant foliage; orange-red coloring becomes more pronounced, especially in cool weather
Water during dry spells; light pruning after flowering to maintain shape; avoid heavy fertilization
Flowering
6-8 weeksSmall purple-pink flowers appear on upright spikes; typically occurs in late summer through early fall
Deadhead spent flowers if desired for neatness; flowers attract pollinators; continue regular watering
Winter Dormancy
3-4 monthsFoliage intensifies to deeper orange-red hues; plant growth slows dramatically but remains evergreen
Reduce watering significantly; minimal pruning; no fertilizer; foliage color is most striking during this period
Mature Shrub
Ongoing, 3+ yearsFully established plant reaching 1-2 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide with dense, year-round foliage display
Annual light pruning in spring after flowering; occasional deep watering; minimal fertilization
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe; improve air circulation around plants
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Remove infested branches; prune to improve air flow; use insecticides containing pyrethrin if necessary
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur dust or fungicide if needed
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Ensure excellent drainage; reduce watering; avoid planting in poorly drained areas; remove severely affected plants
Uses
Year-Round Garden Display
OrnamentalWickwar Flame provides vibrant orange-red foliage throughout the year, with intensity increasing in fall and winter, creating a striking visual focal point in rock gardens, borders, and mixed plantings. [source]
Dried Floral Arrangements
CraftThe flowers and foliage are excellent for cutting and drying, lasting indefinitely in dried arrangements and providing long-lasting color for floral designs and home décor. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe late-season flowers attract bees and other pollinators when many other plants are fading, providing valuable forage during late summer and fall. [source]
Low-Maintenance Landscaping
HouseholdOnce established, Wickwar Flame requires minimal care, pruning, or fertilization, making it ideal for sustainable, low-input garden designs and xeriscaping. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalCalluna vulgaris has been used traditionally in herbal medicine for diuretic and antiseptic properties, though Wickwar Flame is grown primarily as an ornamental. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not typically harvested; however, cut sprigs can be used for dried arrangements in late summer to fall when flowers are fully open. Cut stems will last several weeks in water and several months when dried
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Wickwar Flame was selected for its exceptionally vibrant foliage color, which becomes more intense as temperatures drop in fall and winter—the cooler the climate, the more brilliant the orange-red display
- 🌱 Calluna vulgaris is the only species in its genus and is native to Scotland, where it colors entire hillsides purple during flowering season; it is the national flower of Scotland
- 🌱 Heather can live for 20-30 years and is incredibly resilient, historically thriving on poor, acidic soils where few other plants could survive, making it a symbol of hardy, enduring beauty
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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