Erica arborea, commonly known as Tree Heath, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Mediterranean Basin to the Caucasus and Arabian Peninsula. It thrives in a variety of habitats, including maquis shrubland, pine woodlands, and open rocky slopes. Tree Heath typically grows 3-23 feet tall and has a bushy habit with dark green needle-like leaves. Its numerous small, honey-scented white flowers bloom in spring and are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.

Tree Heath is valued for its hardy nature and the profuse, fragrant blossoms that add ornamental value to gardens. It is often used in rock gardens, as a specimen plant, or in mass plantings for ground cover. In cultivation, it prefers acidic soils and thrives in open, sunny locations, but it can also tolerate partial shade. Erica arborea requires well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established. The wood, known as briar root, is extremely hard and heat-resistant, making it sought after for crafting smoking pipes, jewelry, and knife handles. Gardeners should be aware that in some conditions, it can become invasive outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0