Wax Myrtle

About this plant

The Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera) is an exceptional evergreen shrub renowned for its dense, aromatic foliage and adaptability. Its leathery, olive-green leaves release a pleasant, bayberry-like fragrance when crushed, adding an extra layer of sensory delight to your garden. Ideal for creating screens, hedges, or as a striking specimen plant, the Wax Myrtle's upright, multi-stemmed growth habit provides excellent structure and privacy. Small, inconspicuous flowers are followed by waxy, gray-blue berries that persist through winter, offering vital food for various bird species. Highly tolerant of a range of conditions, from coastal salt spray to poor soils, this resilient native plant is a fantastic choice for sustainable landscapes and low-maintenance gardening.

Care & maintenance

Easily maintained once established. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and maintain desired size. Fertilize sparingly if growth seems sluggish; a balanced, slow-release fertilizer is recommended.