Calluna vulgaris
Common Heather
Calluna vulgaris, also known as common heather or ling, is a low-growing evergreen shrub native to Europe and Asia Minor. It typically grows to 20-50 cm tall, though it can reach up to 1 meter in height. The plant is dominant in heathland and moorland environments, thriving on acidic soils in open sunny situations and moderate shade. It is tolerant of grazing and regenerates after occasional burning, making it a key species in managed nature reserves and grouse moors.
Details
Ericales
Ericaceae
Calluna
The shoots of Calluna vulgaris contain phenolic compounds such as chlorogenic acid and a novel phenolic glycoside, which are more numerous during the summer. The nectar includes callunene, a megastigmane that inhibits a common trypanosome parasite of bumblebees by affecting the parasite's flagellum, reducing its infectivity.
Historically, heather was used to dye wool yellow and tan leather. It is an ingredient in gruit, a mixture used in brewing heather-beer during the Middle Ages. Heather honey is highly valued for its strong taste and unique texture, which is thixotropic. White heather is considered lucky in Scottish tradition, often used in bridal bouquets and sentimental jewelry. The plant has also been used traditionally for treating disorders of the kidneys and urinary tract.
July to September
20-50 cm (8-20 inches), occasionally up to 1 meter
Mauve, occasionally white
Acidic soils in open sunny situations and moderate shade, commonly found in heathland, moorland, bog vegetation, and acidic pine and oak woodlands.
Info
Pannon Flora Ltd. was founded on December 13, 1999, by Gábor Janik, who retains 95% ownership. Janik holds an MSc in Horticulture from the University of Horticultural Sciences (1986) and an Advanced Professional English Certification from the College of International Trade (1990). The company specializes in bird feed production and export, primarily serving markets in Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK, alongside cultivating and distributing imported/exported horticultural seeds. It maintains exclusive partnerships with JOEUN Seed (South Korea) and Takii Europe (Japan), a leader in professional seed breeding and production. Pannon Flora collaborates with certification bodies such as NÉBIH (National Food Chain Safety Office), MERT Kontroll, and SGS Hungary to ensure compliance and quality. The company works with approximately 400 Hungarian growers, ranging from small-scale producers (under 5 hectares) to mid-sized farms and large-scale agricultural enterprises. This profile emphasizes agribusiness expertise, technical partnerships, and operational scalability tailored to international client needs.
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