Erica arborea

RHS Plant Profile
tree heath

Other common names

briar root

Plants for pollinators
Shrubs Trees

An upright, bushy shrub or small tree with small, linear dark green leaves. Produces long clusters or spikes of tiny white sweet-scented flowers in late winter and spring.

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

2.5-4 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
2.5-4 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Ericaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus
Erica can be prostrate or erect, evergreen shrubs with fine, needle-like leaves in whorls, and racemes or panicles of small, bell-shaped or tubular flowers
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained soil in an open site in full sun. See Hardy heathers for more detailed advice

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in mid- or late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Hedging and screens

Pruning

Pruning group 8 (evergreens)

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to fungal diseases, including Phytophthora root rot, in damp conditions