The family Ericaceae, commonly known as the heath or heather family, includes a variety of flowering plants, such as blueberries, cranberries, and azaleas. This diverse group is primarily found in acidic soils and is characterized by its bell-shaped flowers and evergreen leaves. Many members of this family are important for their ecological roles and contributions to food production. Ericaceae plants are typically shrubs or small trees, thriving in temperate and tropical regions. They often grow in habitats like heathlands, bogs, and forests. The family is notable for its unique adaptations, such as mycorrhizal relationships with fungi, which help them absorb nutrients from poor soils.