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Photo by Sten Porse

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Myrica gale

Also Known As

Bayberry

Plant type

shrub

size

H: 3'-6'
W: 3'-8'

planting zones

4a-8b

Myrica gale plant details

Myrica gale is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with green foliage. In fall and summer green and yellow flowers emerge followed by blue fruit. Attracts birds. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and even moisture - regular water. A good option if you're seeking something seaside / salt tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Myrica gale

Plant type: shrub
Plant family: myrtaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 3 FT - 8 FT - wide, 3 FT - 6 FT - tall
Flowers: green and yellow blooms in fall and summer
Uses: fragrant, hedge

GROWING CONDITIONS for Myrica gale

USDA Zones: 4a - 8b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: even moisture - regular
Resistant to: seaside / salt

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Delightful and much used historically, this deciduous shrub is native to the bogs of the northern United States, Canada, and parts of Europe (Scottish Moors!). Sweetly-scented, dark, blue-green foliage appears after the yellow-green spring catkins. If male and female plants are present, small cones will produce tiny winged nutlets. The foliage of this charming native has been used for the making of beer (before hops), schnapps flavoring, tea, insect repellent, royal wedding bouquets and soaps for treating acne. It is a favorite food of beavers and also supposedly used by Sasquatch; however, we are not sure what for! This shrub is nitrogen fixing, a good choice for hedging and perfect for wet areas of the garden. This plant should not be ingested by pregnant women; our plants are unsexed seedlings. PSh/M-W