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Bayberry

Morella pensylvanica · Myricaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around bayberry and prepare for winter.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Deciduous to semi-evergreen depending on climate
Flowering
Spring (discreet flowers, catkins)
Mature size
1.5 to 2.5 m in height
Growth
Moderate
Hardiness
Very hardy, down to -20°C
Origin
North America (Atlantic coast)
Soil type
All soils, even poor and moist

Care

Watering

Plant it in a naturally moist location or water regularly during prolonged dry spells, especially in the first year. Once established, wax myrtle tolerates water fluctuations well and requires little intervention.

Light exposure

Plant it in full sun or partial shade. This plant appreciates light but adapts well to partially shaded conditions too. Good light does, however, promote denser growth.

Soil and drainage

Wax myrtle grows in poor, acidic and even compacted soils. It remarkably tolerates moist or even waterlogged soils, making it valuable for poorly drained areas or coastal zones where few shrubs thrive.

Pruning and shaping

No pruning is necessary. You can prune it after flowering to control the shape or maintain a compact silhouette. It tolerates pruning well and regrows vigorously.

Fertilizing

Fertilizer is not needed. This shrub, adapted to poor soils, prefers natural conditions. Organic mulch at the base is enough to gradually enrich the substrate.

Health and diseases

Very robust, wax myrtle rarely suffers from diseases or pests. In very humid zones, watch for possible fungal problems, but overall it's a very healthy plant that requires little treatment.

Did you know?

Wax myrtle owes its name to the wax produced by its small gray-blue berries: in the past, North American colonists extracted wax from them to make aromatic candles. This practice, very popular in the 18th century, inspired the English nickname 'wax myrtle'. Its crushed leaves also release a subtle, peppery fragrance that's quite pleasant.

Where to buy it

Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.