Erica x stuartii Irish Lemon

Irish Lemon Heather

Erica × stuartii ‘Irish Lemon’ — commonly called Stuart’s Heath — is a low-growing, evergreen shrub valued for its bright foliage and late-season blooms. It forms a compact, spreading mound of fine, needle-like foliage that emerges yellow-green to chartreuse, adding vibrant color throughout the year. In late summer to fall, it produces small, bell-shaped pale pink to lavender flowers that provide additional seasonal interest and contrast against the foliage.

Mature Size:
Width: 18–30 in
Height: 12–18 in

USDA Zones: 6a–8b
Light: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained, acidic soils; prefers sandy or gritty conditions
Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but requires excellent drainage

Wildlife: Attracts bees

Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Low, spreading, evergreen shrub with a mounding habit
Bright yellow-green foliage provides year-round color
Excellent for rock gardens, slopes, edging, and mass plantings
Provides late-season blooms from summer into fall
Performs best in well-drained, acidic soils

Maintenance:
Shear lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense growth
Avoid heavy pruning into old wood
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot

Plant type

Flowering evergreen shrub

Height

18"

Width

12"

Hardiness zones

6–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Bloom time

Early Winter, Fall, Late Fall, Late Winter, Winter

Flower color

Yellow Green

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Alkaline, Well Drained

Landscape use

Container, Erosion control slopes, Mass Planting

Shape

Low Mounding

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No