Wax Myrtle

Wax Myrtle

By Photo by David J. Stang - source: David Stang. First published at ZipcodeZoo.com, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=60779774

Wax Myrtle (Morella cerifera)

Common Names: Southern Wax Myrtle, Bayberry
Native to: Southeastern United States, including Texas
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 10–20 feet (standard variety)
Width: 8–15 feet
Winter Look: Evergreen, with aromatic, glossy olive-green leaves that provide year-round interest
Seasonal Interest: Small, inconspicuous flowers in spring; bluish-gray berries in fall and winter that attract birds
Drought Tolerance: High once established
Soil Requirements: Tolerates a wide range of soils, including sandy and poorly drained soils; prefers well-drained, acidic soil
pH Range: 5.0–6.5
Hardiness Zones: 7–10
Deer Resistance: High; aromatic foliage is not favored by deer
Attracts: Birds (berries are a winter food source), pollinators (small flowers)
Potential Issues: Minimal pest and disease problems; can grow leggy without pruning
Notes: Excellent for hedges, screens, erosion control, and wildlife habitats. Can fix nitrogen, improving soil quality. Prune regularly to encourage a denser growth habit.

Dwarf Wax Myrtle

By Photo by David J. Stang - source: David Stang. First published at ZipcodeZoo.com, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=61101027

Dwarf Wax Myrtle (Morella cerifera 'Dwarf')

Common Names: Dwarf Wax Myrtle, Dwarf Southern Bayberry
Height: 3–5 feet
Width: 3–5 feet
Winter Look: Evergreen, with the same aromatic, glossy green foliage as the standard variety
Seasonal Interest: Produces fewer berries than the standard wax myrtle but retains its year-round foliage appeal
Drought Tolerance: High once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates sandy or poorly drained areas
pH Range: 5.0–6.5
Hardiness Zones: 7–10
Deer Resistance: High
Attracts: Birds and pollinators
Potential Issues: Minimal pest and disease problems; benefits from occasional pruning to maintain shape
Notes: Its compact size and low-maintenance requirements make it versatile for urban or suburban gardens.