How to Grow December Red Heather
Wikimedia Commons
December Red Heather
Erica carnea 'December Red'
shrubDecember Red Heather is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its vibrant deep red flowers that bloom reliably throughout winter months. This low-growing cultivar provides essential color and nectar when most gardens are dormant, making it invaluable for winter landscape interest and supporting pollinators.
When should you plant December Red Heather in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example December Red Heather timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant December Red 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 December Red Heather
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact December Red Heather dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-8, hardy to -15°F to -10°F
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Establishment
3-6 months post-plantingYoung transplant with small woody stems and needle-like foliage; minimal flowering in first season
Water regularly to establish deep roots. Mulch lightly with acidic material (pine needles or bark chips). Avoid fertilizing; let plant acclimate to site.
Vegetative Growth
Spring-summer, ongoingPlant fills out with dense, low mounding growth; fine-textured evergreen foliage remains green year-round
Light deadheading of spent flowers encourages fuller branching. Avoid heavy pruning. Monitor for wet feet; ensure drainage is adequate.
Pre-flowering
September-NovemberPlant develops flower buds throughout autumn; foliage may darken slightly as temperatures drop
Reduce watering slightly as temperatures cool. No fertilizing needed. Cold exposure improves flowering.
Flowering
December-February (6-8+ weeks depending on cold severity)Dense spikes of small tubular deep red flowers cover plant; flowers transition from bud through full bloom to faded stage
Deadhead spent flowers to extend bloom and encourage new buds. Water during dry periods. Provide air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Post-flowering
March-MayFlower spikes fade to bronze or rust; plant returns to vegetative growth with new foliage development
Remove dead flower heads in early spring. Resume normal watering as temperatures warm. Light shaping with pruners if needed.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or sulfur dust if severe; improve air circulation
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Remove and destroy heavily infested shoots; spray with insecticidal soap in late winter; encourage natural predators
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; remove and destroy infected plants; improve air circulation
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Prune off affected branches; spray with horticultural oil in dormant season; monitor regularly
Uses
Winter Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdDecember Red's sturdy stems and long-lasting winter blooms make it excellent for cutting arrangements, wreaths, and festive winter displays that can last 2-3 weeks in water. [source]
Winter Pollinator Support
WildlifeProvides essential nectar and pollen for winter-active bees and insects when few other blooms are available, supporting early spring pollinators during dormant months. [source]
Landscape & Garden Design
HouseholdCreates vibrant winter color in borders, rockeries, containers, and mixed plantings; excellent for creating year-round interest in cool-climate gardens with its compact, neat habit. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalHeather has been used in traditional European herbalism for respiratory support and general wellness, though modern scientific evidence is limited. [source]
Dried Flower Crafts
CraftFlowers dry well for use in potpourri, dried arrangements, and craft projects; retains color and structure when air-dried. [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 harvested for food; deadhead spent flowers by pinching off or cutting with pruners once faded to extend blooming period and encourage bushier growth. Cut stems for winter arrangements before flowers fully fade.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 December Red Heather blooms reliably even in harsh winter conditions, often providing the only bright color in snowy landscapes when other plants are dormant.
- 🌱 Heather is the national plant of Scotland and has been used for centuries to make honey, dye, thatching material, and traditional brooms.
- 🌱 Erica carnea is unique among heaths for tolerating slightly higher pH soils than other Erica species, though it still strongly prefers acidic conditions.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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