Erica multiflora is a species of flowering plant in the family Ericaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean Basin. It is a shrub which can grow up to 2.5 m (8 ft) tall. The Mediterranean Heath, typically referring to species like Erica multiflora or the cultivated hybrid Erica × darleyensis, is an evergreen shrub known for its resilience and ability to provide color during winter and spring. It is a valuable plant for pollinators and often used for ground cover and erosion control.
Key Facts
Botanical Name: The most common species in the Mediterranean Basin is Erica multiflora, while the popular garden hybrid is Erica × darleyensis.
Appearance: It is a low-growing, mounding evergreen shrub with dense, fine, needle-like foliage.
Flowers: The plant produces abundant, small, bell-shaped flowers, usually in shades of pink, white, or mauve, which bloom during the late autumn through early spring when few other plants are in flower.
Habitat and Range: Native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Europe and South Africa, it thrives in rocky, well-drained areas and is often found in garrigues and on cliffsides.
