Wax Myrtle
Morella cerifera
Also listed as Myrica cerifera, Cerothamnus cerifer
Also known as Bayberry, Southern Wax Myrtle, Common Wax-myrtle
Climate Match for your location
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A native evergreen shrub valued for its aromatic foliage and small waxy berries that attract birds. Hardy and low-maintenance, it thrives in coastal and sandy conditions.
Why grow it
Wax myrtle compares favorably to other native coastal shrubs for its dual-purpose appeal: dense evergreen screening with minimal pruning needs, plus reliable bird forage from its persistent waxy fruit. It tolerates sandy, infertile, and poorly drained soils better than many ornamental alternatives, making it practical for difficult sites rather than requiring supplemental fertility or amended planting holes. The aromatic foliage offers sensory interest without invasive behavior or significant pest issues in appropriate climates.
Watch out for
Growth rate and ultimate size vary considerably by cultivar and regional provenance, so young specimens may take several seasons to reach expected mature dimensions. In areas with intense summer heat or extended drought, even established plants benefit from occasional deep watering during the driest months, particularly in the first two years after transplanting.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Myricaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Eastern North America
Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A native evergreen shrub valued for its aromatic foliage and small waxy berries that attract birds. Hardy and low-maintenance, it thrives in coastal and sandy conditions.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Wax Myrtle grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Wax myrtle compares favorably to other native coastal shrubs for its dual-purpose appeal: dense evergreen screening with minimal pruning needs, plus reliable bird forage from its persistent waxy fruit. It tolerates sandy, infertile, and poorly drained soils better than many ornamental alternatives, making it practical for difficult sites rather than requiring supplemental fertility or amended planting holes. The aromatic foliage offers sensory interest without invasive behavior or significant pest issues in appropriate climates.
Watch out for
Growth rate and ultimate size vary considerably by cultivar and regional provenance, so young specimens may take several seasons to reach expected mature dimensions. In areas with intense summer heat or extended drought, even established plants benefit from occasional deep watering during the driest months, particularly in the first two years after transplanting.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Myricaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Eastern North America
Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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