Tree heath (Erica arborea)
Care, watering, light and tips for Tree heath on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Ericaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Tree heath
Erica arborea, also known as Tree Heath or White Heath, is an evergreen shrub or small tree from the Ericaceae family, notable for its dense, dark green foliage and clusters of tiny, highly fragrant white or cream flowers in spring. Its shrubby or tree-like form and hardiness make it ideal for hedges, screens, or as a specimen plant in Mediterranean-style gardens or coastal areas.
Native range
Mediterranean Region, Macaronesia, and East Africa
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade and acidic to neutral, well-drained soils, preferably sandy or rocky. It requires moderate watering, allowing the topsoil to dry out between waterings, and is quite drought-tolerant once established. A common mistake is planting it in alkaline soils, which can lead to chlorosis and poor growth.
How to save a dying Tree heath
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown falling leaves, dry and brittle stems.
- First aid
- Transplant to acidic soil (pH 4.5-6.0), water with lime-free water, prune dry branches.
- What kills it
- Lime in soil/water, lack of acidity, compacted soil, or overwatering.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly to correct pH and watering. Heathers are resilient.