Myrica gale aka Bog Myrtle
Taxonomy
Myrica gale, also known as bog-myrtle, sweet willow, Dutch myrtle, and sweetgale, is a low-growing, deciduous, and bushy shrub that is native to parts of Japan, North Korea, Russia, mainland Europe, the British Isles, and northern North America. It is primarily cultivated for its dark and glossy green foliage, which has a pleasant aroma and prominent, bright yellow resin glands. Although its greenish flowers and tiny fruits are not showy, it is a nitrogen-fixing plant that is found in bogs, fens, swamps, and upper reaches of salt marshes. Bog-myrtle is also a rare houseplant that requires regular watering and well-draining soil. It thrives in long-lasting, direct light and should be placed less than 1 foot from a window. If repotted each time it doubles in size, it should not need added fertilizers.
Common names
Bog Myrtle, Meadow Fern, Sweetgale, Bog Gale, Dutch MyrtleHow to care for Bog Myrtle
Difficulty
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Bog Myrtle is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
Water
Bog Myrtle should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Bog 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.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Bog 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.
Toxicity
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.
Fertilizer
The Bog 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.
Region of origin
Bog Myrtle’s native range is Western Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia to Portugal, east to N.W. Russia. N. America.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Myrica Genus
Myrica rubra
Myrica gale Bog Myrtle
