Erica melanthera Ruby Shepherd

Common Name:
Erica melanthera 'Ruby Shepherd'

Description:
Erica melanthera 'Ruby Shepherd' is a stunning evergreen shrub, prized for its masses of deep ruby-pink, tubular flowers that bloom profusely from late autumn through spring. Its fine, needle-like green foliage provides year-round interest, while the vibrant flowers create a spectacular display in garden beds, borders, rockeries, and containers. This hardy, drought-tolerant variety thrives in Melbourne’s climate, preferring well-drained, acidic soil and a position in full sun to part shade. ‘Ruby Shepherd’ is highly attractive to bees and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens. With its long flowering season and low-maintenance nature, this variety is perfect for mass plantings or as a striking focal point.

Form:

• Shrub - Small
• Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding

Mature Size:

• Height: 40–60 cm
• Width: 50–80 cm

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Autumn
• Flowers in Winter
• Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:

• Deep Ruby-Pink

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots
• Drought Tolerant
• Bee Attracting
• Perennial
• Evergreen
• Long Flowering

Toxicity:

• Non-toxic to humans and pets

Companion Plants:

• Calluna (Scotch Heather)
• Rhododendrons
• Azaleas
• Lomandra
• Dwarf Conifers