Wax myrtle

Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera), also known as Southern Wax Myrtle, Bayberry, Candleberry, or Tallow Shrub, is a species of flowering plant in the family Myricaceae. It is native to North America, where it is found in a variety of habitats, from coastal dunes to swamps and upland forests.

Description

The Wax Myrtle is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can reach heights of 6–12 m. The leaves are simple, alternate, and narrowly elliptic to lanceolate, with a serrated or entire margin. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with separate male and female flowers on the same plant. The fruit is a small drupe, covered in a waxy coating.

Distribution and habitat

Wax Myrtle is native to the southeastern United States, from New Jersey to Florida and west to Texas. It is also found in Mexico and Central America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including coastal dunes, swamps, and upland forests.

Uses

The Wax Myrtle has a long history of use by Native Americans and early settlers. The waxy coating on the fruits was used to make candles, giving the plant its common names of Candleberry and Wax Myrtle. The leaves and bark were used medicinally for a variety of ailments. Today, the plant is often used in landscaping for its attractive foliage and tolerance of poor soils and salt spray.

Cultivation

Wax Myrtle is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of soil types and conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established and can tolerate salt spray, making it a good choice for coastal areas.

Conservation

While not currently listed as threatened or endangered, Wax Myrtle populations are affected by habitat loss due to development and changes in land use.

See also

• List of Myrica species
• Bayberry candle