As summer transitions into fall, Calluna ‘Bud Bloomers’ (Calluna vulgaris) warm up your displays with a pleasing range of cultivar hues, varying from crisp whites and appealing purples to luminous pinks and vibrant reds. 

Set the tone for the fall season by placing in mixed planters on your patio or front step, adding a splash of personality to garden beds, or combining in outdoor window boxes to welcome guests. Presented in decorative pots, ‘Bud Bloomers’ also make stunning gifts that anyone will be delighted to receive!

Calluna vulgaris, also known as common heather, is a part of the flowering plant family, Ericaceae. The scientific name is derived from a Greek word, kalluno, meaning “to cleanse or adorn” –stemming from how the plant’s foliage was once used in broom making. 

While Calluna vulgaris is an iconic sight in Scotland, this low-growing, perennial shrub is well-suited to other countries in Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand.  Purple heather is even one of Norway’s two national flowers! Germany is an exceptional producer of the species, supplying lifestyle plants to hobby gardeners, florists, and creative landscape designers alike.

Calluna ‘Bud Bloomers’ feature dark green foliage adorned with colorful, urn-shaped buds from late summer into autumn. The buds are shaped similarly to the nib of a pen, with the brilliant color of the flowers all on the outside of the bud. The flowers do not open up, protecting their inner vibrance from rain and sun –a main advantage of the long-lasting beauty of Calluna ‘Bud Bloomers’.

The expertise of a “green thumb” is not required to care for Calluna. These plants thrive in fairly acidic soil but are adaptable to container plantings for seasonal color. The eye-catching hues of ‘Bud Bloomers’ are best maintained in a spot that receives half a day of sun or more and is protected from harsh winter winds. Well-draining soil and an acidic fertilizer, such as Rhododendron feed, will ensure your plants look their best.

Qualitree is a North American leader in Calluna production. Alongside our European nursery breeder partners, we strive to provide the latest, best-performing varieties. Our current cultivar options include: white (‘Veluwe’ and ‘Venus’), pink (‘Michelle’ and ‘Monique’), red (‘Siska’ and ‘Steffi’), and purple (‘Linda’, 'Luca', and ‘Renate’). Colors can be combined to create your own head-turning custom mixes.

Warm-up to Calluna ‘Bud Bloomers’ this fall! Contact your broker sales representative or the Qualitree Sales Team to explore the possibilities.

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