Spanish Heath is a dense multi-stemmed evergreen shrub one to three metres high, with a very upright growth habit. Leaves are very small (4-7mm), narrow and tightly rolled, arranged in whorls of 3 or 4 around the stem. Plants bear masses of white or pink tubular flowers during winter and early spring.

Originally from South Africa, this species has escaped as garden plants sold from nurseries. Superficially Spanish Heath can appear similar to our native heath (Epacris impressa) and keen weeders must be careful with identification. This species could wreak havoc in our coastal heathlands if they get a chance to spread as they can sucker like crazy and are hard to kill.
This species was first detected in the Bells Beach Reserve in 2012. Despite active control they have re-emerged in even bigger numbers.

Photos courtesy of Graeme Stockton.