Contents
Description
Morella Adenophora, also known as Coastal Wax Myrtle, is an evergreen shrub native to the coastal areas of the southeastern United States. It belongs to the Myricaceae family and can grow up to 30 feet tall. The plant has a dense, rounded crown with a smooth greyish-brown bark. It is often used for landscaping due to its attractive foliage and tolerance to salt spray.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Myricaceae |
| Genus | Morella |
Appearance
The leaves of Morella Adenophora are simple, alternate, and glossy. They are lanceolate to oblong in shape and can grow up to 4 inches long. The plant produces tiny greenish-yellow flowers in the spring, which are followed by small blue-black berries that are a favorite food source for birds. The bark of the plant is smooth and gray, with a mottled appearance.
Care Guide
Morella Adenophora is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can also grow in partial shade. The plant is drought-resistant and can survive in salt spray environments, making it an ideal choice for coastal landscaping.
Water: Water the plant regularly during the first year of growth to establish a healthy root system. After that, the plant can tolerate periods of drought.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Soil: Morella Adenophora prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Morella Adenophora can grow in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Morella Adenophora is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to scale insects, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or oil. The plant may also be affected by leaf spot, which can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Morella Adenophora is native to the coastal areas of the southeastern United States, from North Carolina to Florida. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including dunes, marshes, and swamps. The plant is also commonly used for landscaping in coastal areas due to its tolerance to salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Morella Adenophora be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with well-drained soil and regular watering.
Q: Is Morella Adenophora an invasive species?
A: No, the plant is not considered invasive but can spread through underground rhizomes.
Q: Does Morella Adenophora require pruning?
A: The plant does not require pruning but can be shaped as desired in the early spring.
Q: How often should Morella Adenophora be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Morella Cerifera
- Morella Pensylvanica
- Morella Rubra
- Myrica Gale
References
- “Morella Adenophora.” Floridata, floridata.com/Plants/Myricaceae/Morella adenophora/1737.
- “Morella Adenophora.” Missouri Botanical Garden, missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c940.
- “Morella Adenophora.” NC State Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/morella-adenophora.
