Myrica californica
Pacific Wax Myrtle
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 between sunset and sunrise when temperatures and wind are the lowest.