Cassiope is a
genus of 9-12 small
shrubby species in the family
Ericaceae. They are
native to the Arctic and north
temperate montane regions. The genus is named after
Cassiopeia of Greek mythology. Common names, shared with several other similar related genera, include heather and heath. They have scale-like leaves lying against the stems, and produce solitary bell-shaped flowers in late spring. Though
hardy, flowers can be damaged by late frosts.