Myrsine Floridana

Description

Myrsine Floridana, also known as southern colicwood, is a small evergreen shrub commonly found in the southeastern United States. It belongs to the family Primulaceae and is known for its glossy green leaves and small white flowers that bloom in the winter and spring. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide, making it an ideal choice for hedges or as an accent plant.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Angiosperms
Class	Eudicots
Order	Ericales
Family	Primulaceae
Genus	Myrsine

Appearance

Myrsine Floridana has glossy green leaves that are elliptical in shape and can grow up to 2 inches long. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem and have a smooth texture. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom in clusters from December to April. The flowers are followed by small, black berries that are attractive to birds. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide.

Care Guide

Water: Myrsine Floridana prefers well-drained soil that is consistently moist. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization as it can cause the plant to become leggy.Soil: Myrsine Floridana prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.Sunlight: Myrsine Floridana prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade but may become leggy.Hardiness Zones: Myrsine Floridana is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Myrsine Floridana is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is kept too wet.

Habitat

Myrsine Floridana is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in coastal areas, wetlands, and pine forests. The plant can tolerate salt spray and is commonly used in coastal landscapes.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Myrsine Floridana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Myrsine Floridana can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives adequate sunlight.Q: How often should I prune Myrsine Floridana?
A: Prune Myrsine Floridana in the late winter or early spring to encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or diseased branches and shape the plant as desired.Q: Is Myrsine Floridana deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Myrsine Floridana is deer-resistant.Q: Can Myrsine Floridana be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Myrsine Floridana can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the summer.

Related Plants

– Myrsine africana- Myrsine cubana- Myrsine guianensis- Myrsine lanuginosa- Myrsine recurvata

References

– University of Florida IFAS Extension: Myrsine Floridana- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Myrsine Floridana- Missouri Botanical Garden: Myrsine Floridana