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Common Heath Wikimedia Commons
Ericaceae

Common Heath

Epacris impressa

Floral emblem of Victoria.

Family
Ericaceae
Genus
Epacris
Native to
Southeastern Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania
Bloom season
Winter, Spring
Type
shrub
Height
2-5 ft
Sunlight
full sun to part shade
Soil
sandy, well-drained, acidic
Water
low to moderate
Hardiness
8-10
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • Epacris impressa is the floral emblem of Victoria, Australia, officially adopted in 1958.
  • The tubular flowers line the stems like beads on a string, creating a striking effect especially in red forms.
  • It belongs to the Australian heath family, convergently evolving a similar appearance to European heathers.
  • Aboriginal Australians sucked nectar from the flowers as a food source.
  • The species is fire-adapted and regenerates vigorously from the base after bushfires sweep through.

Color meanings

0

patriotism

1

beauty

2

resilience

Uses

  • ornamental
  • native garden
  • floral emblem