How to Grow Wax Myrtle
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Wax Myrtle
Morella cerifera
shrubWax Myrtle is a semi-evergreen to evergreen native shrub found throughout the southeastern United States, valued for its fragrant foliage and ornamental appeal. The plant produces small, waxy blue-gray berries that have historically been used to make aromatic candles. It's a hardy, low-maintenance shrub that adapts well to various soil and moisture conditions.
When should you plant Wax Myrtle in your zone?
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Example Wax Myrtle timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Wax Myrtle
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Wax Myrtle
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Wax Myrtle dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 7-10, with best performance in zones 8-9
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Get my Wax Myrtle timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 12 monthsYoung shrub with developing root system and initial branching structure
Water regularly for first year, mulch around base, avoid heavy pruning; space adequately for air circulation
Vegetative Growth
Year 2-3Shrub develops dense branching and aromatic gray-green foliage; compact growth habit
Light pruning to shape; maintain consistent moisture; fertilize lightly in spring if soil is poor
Flowering & Berry Set
Late winter through spring flowering, berries persist through fallSmall catkin-like flowers appear (fragrant, often overlooked), followed by characteristic waxy blue-gray berries
Both male and female plants needed for berry production; minimal intervention required; prune after flowering if desired
Mature Shrub
Year 3+ indefinitelyFull-size shrub with dense foliage, copious berry production, and fragrant leaves
Drought tolerant; occasional pruning to maintain shape; harvesting berries possible for candle-making
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Horticultural oil spray in dormant season; prune heavily infested branches; encourage natural predators
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Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil as needed
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Increase humidity; water foliage; miticide sprays if severe
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Hand-pick; insecticidal soap; neem oil in early morning or evening
Uses
Candle Making
HouseholdThe waxy blue-gray berries yield a fragrant, hard wax historically used to make high-quality candles that burned cleanly and smelled pleasant. This traditional craft remains popular for artisanal candle makers. [source]
Seasoning & Flavoring
CulinaryFresh foliage can be used as an aromatic seasoning in cooking, particularly in Southern cuisine, adding a subtle bay-like flavor to dishes, stocks, and beverages. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalHistorically used in Native American and folk medicine as a root bark decoction for digestive issues, fevers, and skin conditions. Modern herbalism uses the plant for its astringent properties. [source]
Wildlife Food Source
WildlifeThe abundant berries provide essential food for migratory birds, particularly warblers and other songbirds during fall and winter migration. A valuable native plant for wildlife gardens. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping
CraftThe aromatic foliage, compact form, and persistent berries make it an excellent ornamental shrub for native plant gardens, wildlife hedges, and coastal landscapes. Fragrant leaves enhance sensory garden design. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Berries ripen in late fall through winter (September-November in most regions). Harvest berries by hand-stripping branches when fully mature and waxy-coated. Traditionally, ripe berries were boiled to extract wax for candle-making. For ornamental use, leave berries on plant for winter interest and wildlife food.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Wax Myrtle' refers to the waxy coating on the berries, which was so valued historically that American colonists collected the berries to make fragrant candles, with 15 pounds of berries yielding approximately 1 pound of wax.
- 🌱 Wax Myrtle is a pioneer species that naturally colonizes disturbed areas and poor soils, making it excellent for ecological restoration and erosion control in coastal and wetland regions.
- 🌱 The entire plant is aromatic—when foliage is brushed or crushed, it releases a pleasant, distinctive fragrance that inspired its use in perfumes, potpourri, and traditional insect repellents.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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