Erica arborea, commonly known as the tree heath or brezo arbóreo in Spanish, is an evergreen shrub native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of the Mediterranean region, including the Comunidad Valenciana. This plant is typically found in heathland and scrub habitats, thriving in well-drained soils.

Here are some key characteristics of the Erica arborea:

• Height: It can grow as a shrub or small tree, reaching heights of up to 7 meters.
• Leaves: The leaves are small, needle-like, and green, arranged in whorls along the stems, providing a dense foliage.
• Flowers: The plant produces small, white to pale pink, bell-shaped flowers in clusters, which are highly fragrant and bloom from late winter to early summer.
• Adaptability: It is well adapted to fire-prone ecosystems, often regenerating from roots or seeds after a fire.
• Ecological role: Erica arborea plays a critical role in the local ecosystem by providing habitat and food for various insects and birds.

In the Comunidad Valenciana, Erica arborea is commonly seen in mountainous and coastal areas, contributing to the region’s beautiful and diverse flora.