Erica arborea, tree heather, requires silaceous, acidic soil and it's distribution on the island is determined by this and  is abundant in the Ditropo area. It is a tall heather which flowers in spring providing pollen important in local production of the famous Skopelos honey. The tiny, white bell flowers are arranged in whorls among the needle like leaves to form elegant spikes.

The burls of Greek tree heather is utilised for making the bowls of pipes. The burl is at ground level, the bush growing up and the roots down. It is very slow growing to form very hard wood.