St Dabeoc’s heath, Daboecia cantabrica, is native in Ireland.
Sprawling or compact shrub, to 40cm (16in) tall, spreading to 70cm (28in); leaves glossy, dark green 1.5cm (2/3in) long, 6mm (¼in) wide; flowers about 1cm (3/8in) long, usually lavender, summer to autumn. Suitable for USDA zone 6 with protection but some winter damage can occur if planted in heavy ground or frost pockets.
Globular mauve (H2) flowers – the first flowers of the season open single but later ones are double and do not drop off when finished; VI-X; mid-green foliage; open sprawling habit; height 26-30cm; spread 31-45cm.
A fascinating plant, found by Dr Charles Nelson at Carna, Co. Galway, Ireland.
Named after the finder.
Image courtesy of Dr Charles Nelson.