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Myrtlewood (Umbellularia californica) in Phoenix: Winter Outdoors, Summer Indoors

Jeff's myrtlewood (Oregon native) grew well in CA/Chicago, now in Phoenix 2 yrs. Leaf tips browned months ago; varied watering, trimmed, repotted. Indirect sun, no bugs. Asks: full sun? Winter outdoors (45–70°F)? Trim brown tips?

Myrtlewood = Temperate, Not Desert

Native to coastal OR/CA. Prefers cool, moist, partial shade under larger trees. Hates Phoenix summer heat.

Seasonal Strategy

Winter (Nov–Mar): Outdoors in semi-shade (not full sun). 45–70°F is perfect.
Summer: Indoors, sunny window, A/C cooled. Full outdoor sun = scorch.
Trim brown tips: Yes, cosmetic only.
Water: Keep evenly moist, not soggy. Higher humidity helps.

Long-Term

Not a bonsai candidate for desert climate. Consider donating to a suitable climate or accepting seasonal migration. It's a beautiful tree — but not for Phoenix year-round.

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