Heather
Calluna vulgaris
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Overview
Heather (or Ling) is the defining plant of the dune heath at Ainsdale NNR. The purple-pink flowers in August are spectacular and attract enormous numbers of bees. The dune heath supports nationally scarce species including Silver-studded Blue, Emperor Moth, Bell Heather and the habitat itself (Atlantic dune heath) is internationally rare. Active management — cutting, burning and grazing — is required to maintain Heather in good condition and prevent succession to scrub.
At a Glance
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Habitat | Dune heath · Heather moorland · Coastal heath |
| UK population | Common on heathland and moorland throughout Britain |
| Sefton Coast | Present on dune heath at Ainsdale NNR; one of the most southerly dune heath sites in England |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Dune heath at Ainsdale NNR and Birkdale — the best dune heathland in northwest England.
Identification
Low, woody shrub to 60cm. Tiny scale-like leaves in rows. Bell-shaped purple-pink flowers in dense spikes August–October. Old, leggy heather is grey-brown. The characteristic plant of heathland.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Walk the heathy areas at Ainsdale in August for the best display. The fragrance of heather honey from bees working the flowers is distinctive.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species has a favourable conservation status in the UK and remains an important part of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does heather need to be burned on grouse moors?
Heather has a natural lifespan as a productive plant — young plants (pioneer and building phase, 0–15 years) are most nutritious for grazing animals and richest in invertebrates. Old, leggy heather loses productivity. Rotation burning (in cool conditions) or cutting mimics the natural succession reset and maintains mixed-age heather. On the Sefton Coast dunes, cutting and grazing replace burning as management tools.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.