Morella californica aka California Wax Myrtle

Taxonomy

Genus Morella Family Myricaceae Order Fagales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Morella californica, also known as California bayberry, California wax myrtle, or Pacific wax myrtle, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Pacific Ocean coast of North America. It can grow up to 10 meters tall and has serrated, sticky green leaves that emit a spicy scent on warm days. The flowers are arranged in a spike and can range in color from green to red. The fruit is a purple berry with a waxy coating, giving it the common name wax myrtle. This species has root nodules containing nitrogen-fixing microorganisms, allowing it to grow in relatively poor soils. As a houseplant, California Bayberry is rare and needs regular watering to thrive. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and should be placed less than 1 foot from a window.

Common names

California Wax Myrtle, California Bayberry, Pacific Wax Myrtle

How to care for California Wax Myrtle

Difficulty

California Wax Myrtle is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

California Wax Myrtle should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the California Wax Myrtle prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

More info:
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More Species in Morella Genus

Morella quercifolia Morella Quercifolia

Morella rubra Chinese Arbutus

Morella serrata Lance Leaved Waxberry

Morella parvifolia Morella Parvifolia

Morella cordifolia Waxberry

Morella pensylvanica Northern Bayberry

Morella californica California Wax Myrtle

Morella caroliniensis Evergreen Bayberry