PART OF THE FAMILY: Ericaceae

DISCOVER NORTH AMERICA'S UNEXPECTED MEMBERS OF THE HEATH FAMILY

- ANDY BRAND

Throughout my career working in both the commercial plant industry and public horticulture, I have been exposed to an amazing diversity of plants. Particularly fascinating are the array of plants (genera) taxonomists have categorized into different plant families and why.

Members of a plant family share characteristics, such as flower form and leaf arrangement, that distinguish them from other families. They typically have similar cultural requirements, as well. Yet delving into one plant family can be an eye-opening experience, leaving you scratching your head at its unexpected members.

The Ericaceae, or heath family, consists of more than 4,000 species organized into about 120 genera. Most members are evergreen, woody plants ranging from groundcovers to trees. Their flowers, made of fused petals, come in a kaleidoscope of colors and can be tubular or bell-shaped, often resembling miniature urns. Form aside, flowers develop into fruit that are typically either a capsule or berry, occasionally a drupe.

Ericaceous plants can be found worldwide from temperate and cold regions to mountainous, tropical climates. Commonly occurring in acidic, well-drained and typically nutrient-poor soils, they prosper thanks to a close relationship with mycorrhizal fungi. These fungi allow the plants to absorb valuable nutrients not otherwise readily available.

Gardeners are probably most familiar with members in the genera Rhododendron (rhododendron and azaleas) and Vaccinium (blueberries and cranberries), valuable ornamentally and economically, respectively. In addition to these treasured plants, many other beautiful relatives provide effective landscape applications. Let’s look at some of my favorites.

Mountain laurel