Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson’s Stopper)

Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson’s Stopper) is an erect, graceful shrub or small evergreen tree with stiff branches densely covered with tiny, rounded to oval, dark green leaves. Aromatic, they release a pleasant nutmeg or citrusy aroma when crushed. If grown in shade, the foliage becomes less dense, revealing the very ornamental, smooth and reddish, exfoliating bark. Blooming year-round, with a peak in spring, a profusion of small, very fragrant, bright white flowers with graceful stamens appear in long panicles at the end of paired stalks. They attract many species of butterflies and are followed by pretty, red berries that are edible. The fruits are highly appealing to birds, including the mockingbird. Noted for its fragrance, interesting bark, evergreen foliage, showy flowers and fruits, Simpson’s Stopper is an excellent ornamental plant. Hurricane wind resistant and drought tolerant, it works great as a specimen, background shrub or as a hedge.

• Grows up to 5-20 ft. tall (150-600 cm) and 3-15 ft. wide (90-450 cm) but this shrub can be pruned to maintain a smaller and more compact form.
• Easily grown in full sun to part shade in dry to moist, neutral to slightly alkaline, sandy or calcareous soils. More sun exposure will contribute to a smaller form and will promote more blooms. In the shade, this plant may grow taller and have a straggly, untidy appearance. Tolerates drought and occasionally wet soil. Some tolerance to salty wind but not direct salt spray.
• Virtually disease and pest free
• Propagated by seed.
• Native to Florida, the United States Virgin Islands, other countries within the Caribbean, Central America and northern South America.