Wax Myrtle Don’s Dwarf

Wax Myrtle Don's Dwarf

Myrica cerifera, widely known as Southern Wax Myrtle, is a versatile evergreen shrub or small tree native to the southeastern United States. It features narrow, olive-green leaves with a pleasant, aromatic scent when crushed, providing year-round texture and color in the landscape. In natural form, it develops a dense, rounded habit, making it ideal for hedges, screens, windbreaks, or specimen planting. Female plants produce small, waxy gray berries that are highly attractive to birds and other wildlife.

This adaptable plant thrives in a wide range of conditions, from coastal environments to inland gardens. Wax Myrtle is prized for its tolerance to heat, humidity, salt spray, and poor soils, making it an excellent low-maintenance choice. Its rapid growth and evergreen nature allow it to quickly establish privacy or structure in the landscape. Whether used in naturalized plantings, commercial landscapes, or residential gardens, Myrica cerifera delivers durability, ecological value, and understated beauty.

Care Instructions

Planting
Plant in full sun to partial shade. Allow adequate spacing for mature size and good air circulation.

Watering
Water regularly during establishment. Once established, it is drought tolerant but performs best with occasional deep watering.

Pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape or size. Can be selectively pruned into a small tree form.

Pest Control
Generally pest resistant. Monitor occasionally for scale or leaf spots, treating only if necessary.

Soil Tips
Highly adaptable to most soil types, including sandy and poor soils. Prefers well-draining soil but tolerates occasional wet conditions.