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Myrica californica

Pacific Wax Myrtle

Plant photo of: Myrica californica
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Information by: W-E plants for the Willamette Valle        Photographer: Oregon State University

 

Description

This Oregon native is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that reaches 4-6' tall and wide. This attractive plant is upright and somewhat open loose stems that clothe the plant. Leaves are narrow, long and dark green. Small flowers bloom in spring but are inconspicuous unless plant is in full sun; in that case, flowers are red and more noticeable. Round green fruit turn to purple, then black and have a warty surface, usually in fall, attracting birds. This shrub does well in full sun with moist, well-draining soil. It tolerates wet soil and coastal conditions. Established plants are drought tolerant. This is a beautiful shrub for a privacy hedge. Prune crossing branches to maintain vertical structure of plant.

 

Plant Type

Broadleaf Evergreen, Shrub

Height Range

3-6', 6-12'

Width Range

12-25'

Flower Color

n/a

Flower Season

n/a

Leaf Color

Dark Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

Black, Green, Purple

Fruit Season

Fall

Sun

Full

Water

Low, Medium

Growth Rate

Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Loam, Rocky

Soil Condition

Average, Well-drained, Moist

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

English Cottage, Formal, Japanese, Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Water Garden, Wetlands, Woodland

Accenting Features

Standard

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Location Uses

Background, Shrub Border, Foundation, Patio, Park, Walls / Fences

Special Uses

Hedge, Screen, Mass Planting, Wind Break

Attracts Wildlife

Birds

Water Saving Tip:

Adjust sprinklers to avoid watering sidewalks and driveways.