Morella cerifera (Southern Wax Myrtle)

Fast-growing, Morella cerifera (Southern Wax Myrtle) is a densely bushy, evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy, aromatic, oblanceolate, olive green leaves, 3-5 in. long (7-12 cm).  The foliage emits a bayberry candle fragrance when crushed. Inconspicuous fragrant flowers borne in catkins appear in spring. Southern Wax Myrtle is dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate plants. The female plants give way to attractive clusters of waxy, pale blue berries in late summer, persisting through winter. They provide food for many species of birds. Easy to grow and easy to care for, Southern Wax Myrtle is valued for its showy berries and dense, shiny, evergreen foliage. Very versatile, it is a popular choice for screens, hedges, shrub borders, erosion control along stream banks, or wetland gardens. Since it is nitrogen fixing, it is useful for restoration projects. An excellent evergreen shrub, especially for coastal plantings, due to its tolerance to salt spray. At least one male plant must be present for female plants to produce berries. The waxy berries were used by colonists to make bayberry candles, soaps, and sealing wax.

• Grows up to 10-15 ft. tall and wide (3-5 m) and 8-10 ft. wide (2-3 m). Tends to sucker to form large colonies.
• Performs best in full sun or part shade, in average, medium to wet, slightly acid soils. Best berry production is obtained in full sun. Requires constant moisture to get established but tolerates drought and flooding once established. Tolerates salt spray and heat but may be damaged by high winds, snow, and ice.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for leaf anthracnose and leaf mosaic. Deer and rabbit resistant.
• Responds well to pruning and frequent shearing. It can be allowed to develop into an airy hedge.
• Propagate by seeds, semi-hardwood cuttings, and softwood cuttings.
• Native to North America, Central America, Caribbean.