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

How 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

Bog Myrtle requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Meadow Fern is always in the right place to thrive.

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