Bring cool-climate charm to beds, borders, and rock gardens with Calluna vulgaris 'Tib' (Scotch Heather 'Tib'). You get a dense, evergreen mound of tiny, needle-like leaves and upright flower spikes packed with double blooms in lilac-pink tones, adding rich late-season color when many plants are fading.
Plant your heather where it can settle into moist but very well-drained, acidic soil. Sandy or gravelly, humusy mixes work well, and raised spots or gently sloped areas help prevent waterlogging. Full sun gives the best flowering, while part shade (especially afternoon shade) can be helpful in warmer locations. Space plants so air can move through the foliage, and avoid heavy clay sites unless you can amend and improve drainage.
Keep soil evenly moist during establishment and do not let the root zone dry out for long stretches. Once established, maintain steady moisture without soggy conditions. A light mulch of pine needles or other acidifying organic material can help conserve moisture and support the low-pH conditions heathers prefer. Because Calluna vulgaris is best suited to cool summers, it can struggle in areas with high heat and humidity; choose the coolest microclimate you have and avoid reflected heat from pavement or south-facing walls.
For a tidy, compact habit, shear lightly right after flowering or in early spring, trimming only the green growth and not into old, leafless wood. The evergreen foliage provides year-round texture, and the plant is often noted for deer resistance, making it a useful choice where browsing pressure is common. Pair it with other acid-loving plants for a cohesive look and steady seasonal interest.