A southern, evergreen, ornamental shrub or tree that is often used for screens, hedges, and landscaping. The Waxmyrtle, often called a “Southern Bayberry,” has a compact form, narrow, waxy leaves, and yellow globular buds in the spring. The good foliage provides excellent nesting cover for birds, and the fruits are eaten by many animals, including the Bobwhite and the Wild Turkey. During periods of controlled burning, the waxy leaves make a cracking noise. Waxmyrtles are used as a source of honey, and the wax is often collected for making scented candles. Height: 6-20’
Forest, Wetland
Native range from New Jersey west to southeast Oklahoma and east Texas, south through Florida and the West Indies and through Mexico to Central America
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Common
Diurnal
Berries are eaten by birds and wildlife, larval host of the Banded Hairstreak (Satyrium calanus) and the Red-banded Hairstreak (Calycopis cecrops)
Least Concern
