Bernardia Myricifolia

Description

Bernardia Myricifolia, commonly known as the Wax Myrtle Bernardia, is a species of flowering plant in the Euphorbiaceae family. It is native to Central America and can be found in Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. The plant is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It has a rounded crown and dense foliage of small, glossy, green leaves that are 2-7 cm long. The plant produces small, yellow-green flowers that are not showy and fruit that is a capsule containing three seeds.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Wax Myrtle Bernardia has a rounded crown and dense foliage of small, glossy, green leaves that are 2-7 cm long. The leaves are opposite, simple, and oblong to lanceolate in shape. The plant produces small, yellow-green flowers that are not showy and fruit that is a capsule containing three seeds. The plant’s bark is smooth and gray, and it has a somewhat twisted, gnarled appearance.

Care Guide

Wax Myrtle Bernardia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. It can tolerate drought but will not grow as well in very dry conditions. The plant needs full sun to grow well but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in USDA Zones 10-11 and can tolerate temperatures down to 28 degrees Fahrenheit.

Water:

Water the plant regularly but ensure that the soil is well-drained. Do not overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilization:

Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer to help the plant grow well.

Soil:

Wax Myrtle Bernardia prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should not be too heavy or compacted.

Sunlight:

The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Ensure that the plant gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Hardiness Zones:

Wax Myrtle Bernardia is hardy in USDA Zones 10-11 and can tolerate temperatures down to 28 degrees Fahrenheit.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Wax Myrtle Bernardia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent these pests, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and is properly fertilized. If the pests do appear, use a natural insecticide or a strong spray of water to wash them away.

Habitat

The Wax Myrtle Bernardia is native to Central America and can be found in Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. It grows in dry forests, savannas, and other dry areas. The plant is often found growing in rocky soils and on hillsides.

Question and Answer

Q1: How tall does the Wax Myrtle Bernardia grow?

A1: The plant can grow up to 6 meters tall.

Q2: What kind of flowers does the Wax Myrtle Bernardia produce?

A2: The plant produces small, yellow-green flowers that are not showy.

Q3: What kind of soil does the Wax Myrtle Bernardia prefer?

A3: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should not be too heavy or compacted.

Q4: What are the hardiness zones for the Wax Myrtle Bernardia?

A4: The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 10-11 and can tolerate temperatures down to 28 degrees Fahrenheit.

Related Plants

• Bernardia Incana
• Bernardia Myricifolia
• Bernardia Octandra
• Bernardia Trichotoma

References

• “Bernardia Myricifolia.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-22301.
• “Bernardia Myricifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c420.
• “Bernardia Myricifolia.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=22301.