Wax Myrtle: A Versatile Evergreen for Southern Landscapes
Introduction
Wax myrtle, also known as Southern bayberry, is a popular evergreen shrub or small tree that thrives in warm climates. It’s prized for its attractive foliage, adaptability, and wildlife benefits.
Plant Description
Wax myrtle can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide, with a rounded, narrow form. Its aromatic, olive-green leaves are glossy and emit a pleasant bayberry fragrance. The plant produces inconspicuous greenish flowers in spring, followed by clusters of gray-blue, waxy berries that persist throughout the winter.
Growing Conditions
Wax myrtle is a versatile plant that tolerates a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil, but can also tolerate sandy or alkaline soils. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, and can even withstand salt spray and sea spray, making it a great choice for coastal areas.
Planting and Care
When planting wax myrtle, choose a location where the roots will not be disturbed. It’s best to plant in spring or fall. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells, and fertilize it once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the desired shape and size of wax myrtle. For a tree form, prune up the canopy and remove any suckers or low-hanging branches. For a shrub form, prune to control the height and spread, and remove any dead or diseased branches.
Wildlife Benefits
Wax myrtle is an important food source for birds, including the tree swallow, catbird, brown thrasher, and Myrtle Warbler. The fruit also attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
Cultivars
Several cultivars of wax myrtle have been developed for specific traits, such as size, shape, and tolerance to pests and diseases. Some popular cultivars include:
- Wolf Bay: A tall, upright cultivar with thick, dark green foliage.
- Don’s Dwarf: A compact cultivar that rarely grows taller than 5 feet.
- Tom’s Dwarf: A male cultivar that is similar to Don’s Dwarf but slightly taller.
- Hiwassee: A cold-hardy cultivar that can tolerate temperatures down to -4°F.
- Fairfax: A smaller cultivar with a compact, mounding form and light green leaves.
Potential Issues
Wax myrtle is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can occasionally experience some issues:
- Iron chlorosis: This condition can occur in high pH soils and causes the leaves to turn yellow.
- Fire hazard: The aromatic compounds in wax myrtle leaves and stems make it potentially flammable, so it’s important to space plants away from buildings and other structures.
- Invasiveness: Wax myrtle can spread aggressively in some areas, forming dense colonies. Prune out suckers regularly to control its spread.
Conclusion
Wax myrtle is a versatile and adaptable evergreen that adds beauty and benefits to Southern landscapes. Its aromatic foliage, waxy berries, and wildlife value make it a popular choice for homeowners and gardeners alike. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can successfully grow and enjoy this attractive and easy-care plant.
