Both the summer-flowering common heather (Calluna vulgaris) and the winter-flowering snow heather (Erica carnea) can be found in many gardens, but also on numerous balconies. The easy-care and robust plants pose no danger to small children or animals.
Is heather poisonous to people and animals?
Heather, both common heather (Calluna vulgaris) and snow heather (Erica carnea), is not poisonous to humans or animals. They are easy to care for, robust and can be planted in gardens or on balconies without any concerns.
Versatile uses
Calluna vulgaris, the common heather, owes its bristly name to its common use in earlier times. Our ancestors made material for brooms and brushes from their branches, and the plants were also used as roofing and as bedding in stables. The last mentioned use already indicates the potential harmlessness of heather. In fact, the heather - no matter which of the species mentioned is involved - is not poisonous. Quite the opposite, because the common heather was also used in medicine in the past.
Tip
“Heather honey”, which is a dark, quite aromatic honey, is considered a special delicacy. This comes from the broom heather, which is an important pasture for bees.