spike heath, (Bruckenthalia spiculifolia), erect but spreading evergreen shrub, of the heath family (Ericaceae) and the order Ericales. The spike heath is native to southern Europe and to Asia Minor. It is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental, especially in rock gardens. The plant grows about 25 cm (10 inches) tall and bears small, pink, bell-shaped flowers in small spikes.