This tree heath is found in the Mediterranean basin, the Canary Island and North and East Africa.  Some old specimens can grow to 10 feet or more.  The flowers are scented like honey.  There are few heathers with any scent at all.  They like acid soil and grow upright.  These are quite drought tolerant.

 

Hardy to Zone 7 (0 degrees) and warmer.  They need heavy snow loads removed to avoid breakage. 

Cultivar

Flower Color

Time of
Bloom

Height and Width
in approx. 4 yrs

Foliage

Winter

Foliage

Comments

var. alpina * +

white

Mar-May

upright 78” x 36”

medium green

 

 

Estrella Gold * +

white

April-May

broad upright 4’ x 3’

lime green

new growth bright yellow

blooms profusely

Golden Joy *

white

Mar-May

upright 80” x 36”

golden

 

sport found on ‘Alpina’  in Dave Wilson’s nursery in Chilliwack, B.C. new

Spring Smile *

white

April-May

upright 5’ x 3’

light green

tipped pink, yellow in winter

this one is tender