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wax myrtle

Scientific Name: Morella cerifera

Family: Myricaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree, Subshrub, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Wax Myrtle: A Versatile Native Shrub

The Wax Myrtle, known for its adaptability and evergreen foliage, is a popular choice for landscapes across a wide range of climates.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions the aromatic nature of the leaves and berries, which could be attractive to pets.

Considerations for Children

  • The text references the historical use of the plant, specifically the berries and leaves, for flavoring meats and stews. While this doesn't indicate toxicity, it's worth noting from a general awareness perspective.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Myrica cerifera or Morella cerifera (both refer to the same plant)
  • Common Names: Wax Myrtle, Southern Wax Myrtle, Southern Bayberry, Candleberry, Waxberry, Tallow Shrub, Pacific Wax Myrtle (Myrica californica)
  • Family: Myricaceae (Sweetgale family)
  • Genus: Myrica
  • Synonyms: Myrica pusilla (Dwarf Southern Wax Myrtle = Myrica cerifera var. pumila)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to North and Central America, the Caribbean, and the American Southeast.
  • Ranges from the Florida Keys north to southern New Jersey and west to eastern Texas.
  • Abundant in the Coastal Plain, especially at the immediate coast.
  • Pacific Wax Myrtle (Myrica californica) is native to the coasts of California, Oregon, and Washington.
  • Inhabits sandy areas.
  • Thrives in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 7 through 9.

Ecological Role

  • Used for screening, hedging, and as a visual barrier.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Evergreen shrub or small tree.
  • Can reach 20 ft. in height, but typically 6-12 ft.
  • Often multi-trunked with smooth, light grey bark.
  • Light olive-green foliage, aromatic when crushed.
  • The Pacific Wax Myrtle has a dense, bushy form and glossy green leaves.
  • Fast-growing.
  • Leaves are wax-covered, semi-deciduous, and 1-4 inches long.

Quirky Facts

  • Historically used as a natural insect repellent, particularly against mosquitoes.
  • The leaves and berries have been used for flavoring meats (especially wild game) and stews, similar to bay leaves or juniper berries.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Deer resistant.
  • Used to repel insects, including fleas.

Additional Information

  • Monrovia offers details and best practices for growing Southern Wax Myrtle.
  • Fact sheet available for Morella cerifera with symbol MOCE2.