Myrica pensylvanica ~ Northern Bayberry

Myrica pensylvanica ~ Northern BayberryNorthern Bayberry is a dense branching native semi evergreen shrub with a rounded habit. The narrow glossy grey green foliage is aromatic when crushed and covers the inconspicuous flowers that if pollinated give way to tiny clusters of aromatic blue grey berries that persist into winter. Grows best in moist acidic soils. Can be considered a fire hazard in some areas, as the aromatic compounds of the foliage and stems are flammable. Type: Shrub

Northern Bayberry is a dense-branching native semi-evergreen shrub with a rounded habit.  The narrow glossy grey-green foliage is aromatic when crushed and covers the inconspicuous flowers that if pollinated give way to tiny clusters of aromatic blue-grey berries that persist into winter.  Grows best in moist acidic soils.  Can be considered a fire hazard in some areas, as the aromatic compounds of the foliage and stems are flammable.

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  Low maintenance plant.  No serious pests or diseases.  Can tolerate both drought and wet soils.

LANDSCAPE USES: Accents and Group Plantings,  Borders, Rock Gardens, Woodland Gardens, Naturalized Areas, Wildlife Garden, Ponds and Streams, Hedges, Foundation Plantings, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS: Dogwood, Sedge, Turtlehead

Image: Photo by Leonora (Ellie) Enking, Bayberry (Myrica pensylvanica)