Question
I live in Olympia, Washington (zip code 98503) and need to know if I can plant an italian heather in the ground.

Answer
Hello Sharon,


Hello Sharon,

Italian Heather is a gorgeous plant native to South Africa, which is a clue to its hardiness. You are in the perfect sort of climate to display it outside during part of the year. It is a zone 10 or 11 plant, and unfortunately, 98503 (Olympia) is 8a (interestingly, in 1990 it was 7b). But it can be grown outdoors at temperatures from 55 degrees F to 80 degrees F. Temperatures below 30 F are usually fatal.

So, unfortunately, the answer to your question is no. It will not survive year round in your climate in the ground.

This is a plant that requires excellent drainage and acid soil.

It can, however, be successfully grown in a container and brought indoors when the temperatures drop. Here in the Midwest, where I am, I put such plants on my south facing patio. I managed to overwinter a lavender plant that way this past winter.

I'm sorry that I could not be more encouraging, but at least I hope that I provided the information that you need.

Regards,

Donna