Myrica cerifera aka Wax Myrtle

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Wax Myrtle is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

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

Wax Myrtle loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Wax Myrtle prefers bright indirect 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.

During the cold period, it is common for Wax Myrtle to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

The Wax Myrtle should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

New growth will sprout from the top of the Wax Myrtle as it grows vertically.

Wax Myrtle’s native range is South-eastern N. America. Possibly naturalized in S. England[50].