Myrica californica

California Bayberry

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Common Name: 

California Bayberry

Plant Type: 

Flower color: 

Foliage color: 

Green

Sun (From 0 to 5): 

Water (From 0 to 5): 

Maximum temperature: 

36°C

Minimum temperature: 

7°C

Maximum height: 

760 cm

Maximum width: 

760 cm

California Bayberry (Myrica californica) - Description

M. californica is native to coast and coastal valleys from Southern California to Washington. It's branches are densely clothed with tooth-edged, narrow 2 to 4.5 inch long leaves that are glossy dark green above, and paler beneath. It also produces purple, wax-coated nutlets, which attracts birds.

California Bayberry (Myrica californica) - Blooming

Inconspicuous catkins.

California Bayberry (Myrica californica) - Growth

Evergreen and deciduous, a few species are shrubs and small trees grown for aromatic foliage and small berries. Depending on species, they grow to 4 feet to 20-30 feet.

California Bayberry (Myrica californica) - Planting

Vary in requirements. Propagate from seeds by first removing wax coating; two month of cold stratification may help. M. cerifera is propagated from semi hardwood cuttings in early summer or root cuttings in winter.

California Bayberry (Myrica californica) - Pest

Myrica is susceptible to dieback, stem rots, root rots, rust, and leaf spots.

California Bayberry (Myrica californica) - Interesting facts

The waxy fruit is indigestable to some birds, but attracts others and is a good winter food source for Yellow-rumped Warblers in particular. The fruit can also be eaten by people, notably Myrica rubra, and its wax used to make candles.

California Bayberry (Myrica californica) - Soil and irrigation

Varies by species. Many can withstand some challenging conditions such as drought or boggy sites. Humus-rich, well-drained soil is best.

Myrica californica - California Bayberry - Photos