Morella californica

$9.90 – $14.30

We do not take online orders for plants. Please come in to the nursery, call or email: (510) 234-2222 or sales@thewatershednursery.com

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California wax myrtle

This evergreen shrub or small tree grows to 10′-15’ tall with an annual growth rate of 12 to 18 inches. It can be used in the landscape as a hedge or to soften an unattractive feature or wall.

California wax myrtle is easy to grow. It can be sheared to produce a hedge, or it can be left to grow into large, loose mounds, providing a background of color to other shrubs and perennials. It’s one of the best looking native plants for gardens according to Sunset Garden Books.

Clusters of black fruit are held on short spurs in late summer, persisting into midwinter and providing food for wild birds.

Previously named Myrica californica.

Lifeform: Shrub, Tree

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade

Water: Dry, High, Light, Moderate

Soil: Clay, Loam, Rocky, Sand

Other: Attracts Bees, Attracts Birds, Deer Resistant

 

Container

2-Gal, D-40-O, D-40O, TB4-O, 5-Gal, D-40, TB4, TP4
Ecological Value

Good nesting site for small birds and the chemicals produced in the leaves make this plant deer resistant. Good nitrogen fixer in a moist location and makes a strong windbreak.
Historical Uses

The bark and leaves have historically been used for stomach ailments. The wax may be extracted from the fruit and made into candles and soap; however, this species produces much less wax than other ba
Distribution

native to California and is also found outside of California, but is confined to western North America.
Elevation

Between 0 and 492 feet
Communities
Habitat

Coastal, riparian, seep and springs

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