Morella caroliniensis - Small Bayberry

Sizes available: #1 (Trade gallon)

Basics: zones 4-7, full sun to part sun to light shade, up to 15' tall but usually more like 4-10' x 4-10', Dioecious: Male plants produce yellow catkins in mid-late spring, the female plants produce the pale blue fruits (drupes) with the waxy coating, can be found in both moist and dry environments, is very adaptable and does well in lean. acidic, sandy soils, This plant is adaptable and drought tolerant.

Common names: Small Bayberry, Northern Bayberry, Candleberry, Swamp Candleberry

Synonyms: Myrica pensylvanica, Morella pensylvanica

Family: Myricaceae

Origin/Distribution: Occurs in eastern North America from Newfoundland west to Ontario and Ohio and south to North Carolina. Native to Maine.

Habitat: Is found in moist to dry sandy-peaty habitats including woodland, edge, thickets, fields, roadside, ledge, coastal headlands, beach edges, and dunes.

More: Candles, fragrance, salt tolerant, larval host, potential decorative berry branch for late season floral work - More information coming soon.

Source: New England Wetland Plants

Image: Wikimedia Commons