Tree heath - Erica arborea (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Tree heath

Also known as: Rree heath

Tree heath is a small, erect tree with needle-like leaves. The flowers of this plant look like small bells and smell similar to honey which makes them appealing to pollinators. Native to Southern Europe, tree heath has spread to other parts of the world and is considered a weed in Australia.

Scientific classification

Species

Tree heath (Erica arborea)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Winter

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

1 m to 7 m

Plant Height

50 cm to 1 m

Spread

Green, Blue, Yellow

Leaf Color

41 cm

Flower Size

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Tree heath

Distribution of Tree heath

Distribution Map

Tree heath naturally thrives in the Mediterranean region, parts of Europe, and northeastern Africa. It has been introduced and cultivated in regions such as southern Asia, Oceania, and notably in temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere. Tree heath adaptability has allowed it to become established outside its native range in various climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest, bamboo, grassland, upper moorland, rocky places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Tree heath is a popular shrub used in temperate to subtropical gardens for its striking evergreen foliage and sprays of small, waxy white or pinkish bellflowers. It is used as an ornamental in dry, sunny or partly shady spots. It can be planted under taller trees, and is sometimes used as a hedging or a screen.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Tree heath, including the following common varieties :

Tree heath 'Estrella Gold'Erica × darleyensis 'White Perfection'Tree heath 'Albert's Gold'

Care Guide for Tree heath

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from the Mediterranean, tree heath flourishes in well-drained soils and shows drought tolerance when established. It requires moderate watering every 2-3 weeks and retains hydration in its evergreen leaves, making it ideal for outdoor settings that benefit from natural rainfall.

Fertilize: Tree heath thrives with balanced nutrition fertilizers applied biannually in spring and mid-summer at quarter strength. Avoid over-fertilization to protect roots, adjusting amounts during dormancy. Follow product guidelines and minimize foliage contact to prevent burn, ensuring healthy growth and resilience.

Pruning: Tree heath has needle-like leaves and delicate white flowers. Prune in early to late winter to shape and remove dead wood, promoting denser growth and abundant flowering. Avoid cutting old wood to prevent regrowth issues. Pruning during dormancy minimizes stress and enhances overall health.

Propagation: Tree heath is an attractive shrub known for its evergreen leaves and white flowers. Propagate using 15 cm (6 in) semi-ripe cuttings in late summer, dipped in rooting hormone, and planted in a moist perlite and peat moss mix. New growth indicates successful rooting.

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