Myrica pensylvanica, commonly known as northern bayberry or candleberry, is a versatile and multi-purpose native shrub found across eastern North America. Key features of Myrica pensylvanica include: Growth Habit: Northern bayberry is a bushy, semi-evergreen to evergreen shrub that typically grows 3-8 feet tall and wide, forming dense, suckering colonies. Foliage: The leaves are oblong to lance-shaped, 2-4 inches long, dark green in color, and have a distinctive waxy, aromatic texture when crushed. Foliage often remains on the plant through winter. Flowers: In spring, Myrica pensylvanica produces inconspicuous, greenish-yellow catkins along the stems before leaf emergence. Fruit: Following the flowers, the plant develops small, waxy, grayish-white berries (drupes) that are a key source of food for wildlife. Growing Conditions: Northern bayberry thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils but is adaptable to a variety of conditions, including poor, sandy, or coastal sites. Uses: Beyond its ornamental value, Myrica pensylvanica has a long history of practical uses. The waxy berries were traditionally used to make aromatic bayberry candles, and the leaves and bark have medicinal properties. It is also an excellent native choice for erosion control, wildlife habitat, and as a salt-tolerant hedge or screen. Overall, Myrica pensylvanica is a versatile, hardy, and aromatic native shrub well-suited for landscaping, ecological restoration, and wildlife gardens across its range.
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