What is Cassiope?

Cassiope is a genus of flowering plants native to the alpine and subalpine regions of the world. Plants in this genus are known as heaths or heathers, which can cause some confusion with other genera also known by these common names. There are over 10 species in this genus and some are cultivated ornamentally, although they can be difficult to grow because they are very particular about the climate and soil conditions. Nurseries sometimes carry Cassiope species and they can also be grown from cuttings and ordered directly from companies that specialize in them.

Members of this genus are all evergreen shrubs with a dwarfish growth habit, ideally suited to the cold and harsh conditions in their native regions. The leaves are small and tend to overlap. Cassiope flowers are bell-shaped and white, commonly appearing in clusters on the ends of the branches. Flowering can occur in the spring and summer, when the weather is at its most temperate.

These plants have very particular soil requirements. They need acidic soil amended with peat with a very high moisture content. Many Cassiope species have evolved to live on or in bogs, and do not do well in well-drained, rich soils. They are also accustomed to the ambient moisture of bog conditions and may need to be sprayed to maintain humidity if they are being grown in a dry climate. Members of this genus tolerate extremely cold temperatures well, but can struggle to grow in heat, and they need full to partial shade to thrive.

Cassiope can make an excellent border plant or addition to a rock garden. It does very well in alpine gardens featuring other small, hardy plants from the alpine and subalpine regions of the world, and can be overwhelmed by showier big plants adapted to warmer climates. In addition, the unique soil requirements for these plants can become a conflict for plants preferring soil with a more neutral acidity and more nutrients.

Good companion plantings for Cassiope include mosses, anemones, rock-jasmine, globeflowers, and vernal iris. These plants can also be used in landscaping schemes with rocks, sculptures, and water features. If Cassiope is being grown in containers, conditions should be carefully monitored to confirm that they are as moist and acidic as these plants prefer, without becoming waterlogged or excessively acidic. Controlling the environment in containers is sometimes challenging and may require additional soil amendments and other adjustments to keep plants healthy.