Although the wood is reported to be heavy, very hard, strong, brittle and close-grained, this species is different than the Oregon Myrtlewood, Umbellularia californica, (AKA California Bay Laurel) used for artistic endeavors found in gift shops all along the Oregon coast.

Myrica californica (Pacific Wax Myrtle) - This California native is a vigorous multi-branched evergreen shrub reaching up to about 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide - easily kept smaller.

Myrica californica (California bayberry, California wax myrtle or Pacific wax myrtle is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Pacific coast of North America.

The Pacific Wax Myrtle's dense bushy form, rapid growth and glossy green leaves make it a popular shrub for screening. It can also be pruned into an attractive small tree. Broadleaf evergreen shrub that can ultimately grow to 30’ tall and 20’ wide if it is not pruned. It features many upright stems which are arranged in a rather loose fashion.

Only few plants, such as Myrica gale, the bog-myrtle or sweet-gale of Europe and northeastern North America and Myrica hartwegii, the California native Sierra Myrtle remain in the genus Myrica (San Marcos Growers). As of 2023 the taxonomic treatment is not fully resolved.

Myrica californica (Morella californica) tolerates sandy, loamy, or clay soils. By adding nitrogen to the soil by way of its roots, in combination with nitrogen -fixing bacteria (nitrogen fixation), this myrtle species builds soil health.

Jan 17, 2023 · Myrica californica, also known as Pacific wax myrtle or California bayberry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the western coast of North America, ranging from southern Oregon to Baja California.

Considered one of the best looking native western shrubs for the garden. Hardy to USDA Zone 7 Native to the Pacific Coast and coastal valleys from Washington to southern California.

The species name, californica, means "of California." With its dense upright habit and glossy leaves it grows to a height and width of 10 to 30 feet. The leaves are about 4 inches long, narrow, and glossy green with black dots.

Myrica californica, commonly called Pacific wax myrtle, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Pacific coast and coastal valleys from the Santa Monica Mountains north to Vancouver …