How to Grow Waxmyrtle
Wikimedia Commons
Waxmyrtle
Morella cerifera
shrubWaxmyrtle is a native North American evergreen shrub known for its fragrant, waxy berries and aromatic foliage. It grows naturally in coastal regions and sandy soils, producing small blue-gray berries that were historically used to make candles. The plant is valued for its ornamental appeal, wildlife benefits, and low-maintenance characteristics.
When should you plant Waxmyrtle in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Waxmyrtle timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Waxmyrtle
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Waxmyrtle
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Waxmyrtle 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
Sign up free to see if Waxmyrtle grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Waxmyrtle timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling/Transplant
First 6-12 monthsYoung plant with small, narrow evergreen leaves; compact growth habit
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Protect from extreme heat and wind. Establish good root system before heavy pruning.
Vegetative Growth
Year 1-3Shrub develops fuller foliage; leaves are aromatic when brushed; plant grows 1-2 feet annually
Minimal fertilizer needed; too much nitrogen reduces waxy berry production. Prune lightly to shape if desired. Drought-tolerant once established.
Flowering
3-4 weeks in springSmall, inconspicuous flowers appear in spring (March-April); male and female flowers on separate plants
Plant both male and female plants for berry production. Flowers are not showy but attract pollinators. No special care required.
Fruiting
Summer through winter (6-8 months)Female plants produce waxy, blue-gray berries clustered along stems; berries persist through winter
Berries provide winter food for birds and wildlife. Berries contain aromatic wax coating; fragrant when crushed. No fertilizer needed during fruiting.
Dormancy/Evergreen Rest
November-FebruaryPlant retains foliage year-round; growth slows in cold months; berries provide winter interest
Minimal watering in winter; plant is drought-tolerant. No pruning needed unless shaping desired. Hardier varieties tolerate temperatures to 10°F.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Inspect regularly; spray with horticultural oil in early spring before new growth; prune heavily infested branches
-
Use neem oil or insecticidal soap in spring; remove heavily infested stems; encourage natural predators
-
Usually minor; hand-pick if necessary; maintain plant health through proper watering
-
Increase humidity; spray foliage with water; use miticide if severe infestation occurs
Uses
Aromatic Beverages & Tea
CulinaryWaxmyrtle leaves make a fragrant herbal tea with a pleasant, slightly spicy flavor. The leaves have been used traditionally to flavor and preserve foods, and the berries add aromatic interest to culinary preparations. [source]
Candle & Wax Production
HouseholdHistorically, waxmyrtle berries were boiled to extract a fragrant, pale-green wax used for high-quality candles. This natural wax produces a pleasant aroma when burned and is still valued by artisanal chandlers. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalWaxmyrtle bark and leaves have been used in traditional medicine for immune support, circulation, and general wellness. The plant contains compounds with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Native Shrub for Wildlife
WildlifeThe persistent blue-gray berries provide essential winter food for migratory birds, including warblers and thrushes. The dense evergreen foliage offers shelter and nesting habitat. [source]
Ornamental Landscape Plant
CraftWaxmyrtle's evergreen foliage, aromatic leaves, and decorative berries make it an attractive addition to gardens, particularly in coastal and naturalistic landscapes. It works well as a hedge, screen, or specimen shrub. [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 are ready for harvest in fall (September-November) when fully blue-gray and waxy. For candle-making, harvest abundant berries and simmer them to extract the wax coating, which floats to the surface as it cools. Alternatively, harvest fresh berries for ornamental or wildlife purposes without processing. Leaves can be harvested year-round for fragrance and dried for tea or potpourri.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Waxmyrtle berries were so valued in colonial America that large-scale candle production became a significant industry; a single candle required berries from 15+ plants due to the small wax coating on each berry.
- 🌱 The plant's scientific name, Morella cerifera, comes from the Latin 'cerifera' meaning 'wax-bearing,' reflecting the distinctive waxy coating on its berries.
- 🌱 Waxmyrtle is native to coastal regions from New Jersey to Texas and naturally thrives in sandy, poor-quality soils that would challenge many other plants, making it ideal for difficult landscaping situations.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Waxmyrtle planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Waxmyrtle seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Waxmyrtle timeline →