Empetrum hermaphroditum
Empetrum hermaphroditum · Ericaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant empetrum hermaphroditum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- English name
- Camarine hermaphrodita
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring (April-May)
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm tall
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-30 °C and below)
- Origin
- Arctic and subarctic regions
- Soil type
- Acidic, well-drained, poor
Care
Light exposure
Place your Camarine hermaphrodita in full sun or partial shade in warm regions. It appreciates airy exposure and tolerates coastal salt spray well. The more sunlight it receives, the better it will thrive and produce its small black fruits.
Soil preparation
Choose acidic soil (pH 4.5 to 5.5), well-drained and poor in nutrients. This shrub thrives on peaty or sandy substrates. Avoid chalky soils and overly compacted areas that retain stagnant water.
Watering and humidity
Maintain moderate soil moisture, especially during growth. Once established, the plant is very tolerant of drought and difficult conditions. Reduce watering in winter.
Pruning and shaping
No obligatory pruning needed. You can lightly reshape after flowering to maintain a compact form. This species naturally develops a bushy, dense habit that requires no special maintenance.
Fertilization
Undemanding, Camarine thrives in poor soil. A spring application of acidic compost or peat is sufficient. Avoid concentrated nitrogen fertilizers that would promote foliage at the expense of fruiting.
Disease resistance
Very resistant, this arctic species mainly fears excess stagnant moisture, which can cause root rot. Pests and fungal diseases are rare when given appropriate conditions.
Did you know?
Camarine hermaphrodita is an arctic plant that plays a major ecological role in the tundra: its black berries feed migrating birds and reindeer, while its waxy leaves persist even under snow. Its Latin name 'hermaphroditum' highlights that each flower possesses both reproductive organs, allowing it to self-pollinate in harsh environments where insect pollinators are scarce.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.