Family: Ericaceae Genus: Daboecia

Species: Daboecia cantabrica (Huds.) K.Koch

Common Name(s): St. Dabeoc’s heath, connemara heath; (Spanish) brezo cantabrico, gorbieza, tamborella; (Galician) queiruga maior

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Daboecia cantabrica, also known as St. Dabeoc’s heath, is native to the coastal regions of Western Europe, particularly the British Isles, Spain, and Portugal. This evergreen shrub is closely related to heather and blueberries. The plant is often found growing on rocky coastal cliffs and heathlands where it is exposed to strong winds and salty sea spray. The plant produces beautiful pink, purple, and white, bell-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring to early autumn.

Etymology

The genus name Daboecia honors St. Dabeoc (or Dabeoc of Fermanagh), an early Irish Christian saint. According to legend, St. Dabeoc was a hermit who lived in County Fermanagh, Ireland. He was said to have lived a life of piety and performed many miracles. The species epithet cantabrica refers to the Cantabrian Mountains in northern Spain, the native habitat of the plant.

Fables, Folklore, and Mythology

In Celtic mythology and folklore, the heathlands and moorlands where St. Dabeoc’s heath commonly grows are frequently linked to faeries and other mythical beings. Some tales depict faeries residing among the heather or suggest that the plant signifies faerie presence. Additionally, legends surrounding St. Dabeoc often mention the plant and its reputed healing properties.250

Traditional Medicine

St. Dabeoc’s heath has been an important source of inspiration for artists and writers and has appeared in paintings, poetry, and literature.

Ecology

The nectar-rich flowers of St. Dabeoc’s heath are an important food source for bees and other pollinators. Its leaves are a favorite food source of caterpillars and other insects.