Contents
Description
Morella, also known as wax myrtle or bayberry, is a genus of evergreen shrubs that are popular among gardeners and landscapers for their attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and berries that attract wildlife. These plants are native to the Americas and Asia, and they grow well in a variety of soil types and climates.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myricaceae |
| Genus | Morella |
Appearance
Morella shrubs grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide, although most cultivated varieties are smaller. They have glossy, dark green leaves that are fragrant when crushed, and small flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are followed by waxy, blue-gray berries that persist through the winter and are a favorite food of birds and other wildlife.
Care Guide
To grow Morella shrubs, provide them with well-drained soil and full or partial sun. These plants are drought tolerant once established, but they benefit from regular watering during the first year or two of growth. Fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer in the spring, and prune as needed to maintain their shape.
Morella shrubs are hardy in USDA zones 7-10, and they can be grown as a hedge, specimen plant, or in mixed borders.
Common Pests & Diseases
Morella shrubs are generally disease and pest resistant, but they may occasionally be affected by scale insects, spider mites, or leaf spot diseases. These problems can be treated with horticultural oil or other insecticides and fungicides as needed.
Habitat
Morella shrubs are native to a wide range of habitats, including coastal areas, wetlands, and upland forests. They are valuable for erosion control and habitat restoration projects, and they are often used in landscaping to provide screening and privacy.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Morella shrubs be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Morella shrubs can be grown in containers, but they may require more frequent watering and fertilization than those grown in the ground.
Q: When is the best time to prune Morella shrubs?
A: The best time to prune Morella shrubs is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: Are Morella berries edible?
A: Yes, Morella berries are edible, but they have a strong, spicy flavor and are usually used to make candles or soap.
Q: Can Morella shrubs be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Morella shrubs can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Myrica cerifera (Southern wax myrtle)
- Myrica pensylvanica (Northern bayberry)
- Myrica gale (Sweet gale)
- Myrica californica (Pacific wax myrtle)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Gilman, E. F., & Watson, D. G. (1993). Myrica cerifera: Southern wax myrtle. University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.
- Morella. (n.d.). In Flora of North America. Retrieved July 22, 2021, from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=120613.
