Wax Myrtle - Bayberry Wild Cinnamon (Myrica cerifera)

Family: Myricaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Wax myrtle is a fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing, evergreen shrub growing to 9m (29ft). It is native to the moist swampy woods and damp coastal areas of the southeast U.S. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or full sun. The plant can tolerate strong winds but not maritime exposure. Myrica cerifera L. is a synonym of Morella cerifera (L.) Small. Bloom Color: Green. Main Bloom Time: Early spring, Late spring, Mid spring. Form: Rounded, Vase.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; The fruit is about 3mm in diameter with a large seed.; There is very little edible flesh and the quality is poor.; Leaves and berries are used as a food flavouring.

Habitat & North American Range

Thickets on sandy soil near swamps and marshes, also on dry arid hills in which situation it is often only a few centimetres tall. (Zone 7)