Wax Myrtle: The Ultimate Low-Maintenance Native Shrub
Looking for a tough, attractive native plant that practically grows itself while feeding local wildlife? Meet the wax myrtle (Morella cerifera), a southeastern native that’s been quietly winning over gardeners with its easygoing nature and year-round appeal.
What is Wax Myrtle?
Wax myrtle is a perennial evergreen shrub that typically grows 6-10 feet tall and wide, though it can occasionally reach up to 10 feet in ideal conditions. This multi-stemmed woody plant grows at a moderate pace, making it perfect for gardeners who want results without having to wait decades.
The plant gets its common name from the waxy coating on its blue-gray berries, which were historically used to make candles. You might also see it listed under its former scientific name, Myrica cerifera, in older gardening references.
Where Does Wax Myrtle Call Home?
This adaptable native thrives across the southeastern United States, naturally occurring in Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, and Puerto Rico. It’s also been introduced to Hawaii, where it has naturalized.
Why Your Garden (and Local Wildlife) Will Love Wax Myrtle
Wax myrtle is like that reliable friend who’s always there when you need them. Here’s what makes it such a garden superstar:
- Evergreen beauty: Glossy green foliage provides year-round structure and color
- Wildlife magnet: Small mammals get 5-10% of their diet from the berries, while birds and large animals also benefit from both food and cover
- Pollinator friendly: Small white spring flowers provide nectar for bees and other beneficial insects
- Salt tolerant: Perfect for coastal gardens where other plants struggle
- Adaptable: Thrives in both wetland and upland conditions
Perfect Spots for Wax Myrtle in Your Landscape
This versatile shrub shines in several landscape roles:
- Wildlife gardens: Creates excellent habitat and food sources
- Naturalized areas: Looks right at home in informal, natural-style plantings
- Coastal landscapes: Handles salt spray and sandy soils like a champ
- Privacy screens: Dense growth provides natural screening
- Erosion control: Root system helps stabilize slopes and banks
- Rain gardens: Tolerates both wet and dry conditions
Growing Conditions and Care
One of wax myrtle’s best qualities is its set it and forget it nature. This tough native adapts to a wide range of conditions:
Hardiness: Thrives in USDA zones 7-11, with some cold tolerance down to -3°F
Soil: Accepts coarse, medium, and fine-textured soils with pH ranging from 5.4 to 9.1. Low fertility requirements mean you won’t need to fuss with fertilizers.
Water: Moderate drought tolerance once established, though it appreciates consistent moisture during dry spells
Sun exposure: Performs best in full sun but can handle some light shade (though it’s considered shade intolerant)
Special considerations: Handles salt spray, making it ideal for coastal properties
Planting and Care Tips
Getting wax myrtle established is refreshingly straightforward:
- When to plant: Spring or fall for best establishment
- Spacing: Plant 6-8 feet apart for screening, or give single specimens 8-10 feet of space
- Planting: Available as bare root, container, or seed-grown plants
- Watering: Water regularly the first year, then only during extended dry periods
- Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; trim in late winter if shaping is desired
- Fertilizing: Usually unnecessary thanks to low fertility requirements
Pro tip: Wax myrtle can spread slowly by root suckers, so consider this if you want to contain its spread. On the flip side, this trait makes it excellent for naturalizing large areas.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While wax myrtle is generally problem-free, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Can be somewhat aggressive in ideal conditions due to its rhizomatous growth
- Not fire-resistant, so avoid planting in high fire-risk areas
- Requires at least 155 frost-free days, limiting its northern range
- May not be the best choice for formal, manicured landscapes due to its natural, somewhat wild appearance
The Bottom Line
Wax myrtle is the kind of native plant that makes gardening feel easy and rewarding. It asks for little, gives back plenty, and supports local ecosystems while looking good year-round. Whether you’re creating a wildlife haven, need a low-maintenance privacy screen, or want to add a reliable native to your landscape, wax myrtle delivers without drama.
For gardeners in its native range, this adaptable shrub is definitely worth considering – your local birds, bees, and mammals will thank you for it!
