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.
Type: |
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Origins: |
Northeast N. America |
Height: |
5’ - 10’ |
Spread: |
5’ - 10’ |
Spacing: |
8’ |
USDA Hardiness Zone: |
3 - 7 |
Culture: |
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Bloom Color: |
Green |
Season of Interest: |
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)