Northern bayberry (Myrica pensylvanica) mih-REE-kah pen-sil-VAN-ih-kah Genus:  Myrica

This North American coastal native exhibits quiet beauty and an easy-going habit. It grows to 10 feet tall, and spreads slowly to form colonies with glossy, semi-evergreen aromatic leaves.  It looks equally at home as a hedge, in an herb garden, or in a natural meadow.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Myricas are most effective en masse, for use in woodlands, meadows, borders, and formal areas. They have aromatic, dark green leaves and small flowers. The clustered fruits are small, bluish-black spheres encrusted with a whitish, waxy coating; plant at least one male to pollinate the female species. Many species were used for making bayberry candles, sealing wax, and soap. Some species are native to North America. 

Care: 

Grow in moist, humus-rich, preferably acidic soil in full sun to partial shade. They are tolerant of poor soils, drought, wet soils, and coastal conditions.

Propagation: 

Layer in spring, root greenwood cuttings in summer, or sow seed in a cold frame when ripe.

Problems: 

Leaf spots, dieback, stem rots, root rots, rust.

Overview

Height 6 ft. to 10 ft. Spread 10 ft. to 15 ft. Growth Habit Spreads Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Adaptable Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Song Birds, Deer Resistant, Fragrant Foliage, Native, Showy Foliage, Showy Fruit Bloom Time Spring Flower Color Green, Yellow Uses Beds and Borders, Roadside, Screening, Waterside Style Herb Garden, Meadow Garden, Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Tolerance Drought Tolerant, Frost Tolerant Type Shrubs