Morella californica aka California Wax Myrtle
Taxonomy
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 MyrtleHow 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:
Wikipedia
More Species in Morella Genus

Morella caroliniensis Evergreen Bayberry
Morella quercifolia Morella Quercifolia

Morella faya Candleberry Myrtle
Morella parvifolia Morella Parvifolia

Morella pensylvanica Northern Bayberry
Morella cordifolia Waxberry
Morella serrata Lance Leaved Waxberry
