| Latin Name: | Myrica cerifera |
| Common Name: | Wax myrtle |
| Family: | Myricaceae |
| Synonyms: | M. carolinensis. Mill. |
| Known Hazards: | There is a report that some of the constituents of the wax are carcinogenic[222]. |
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Author: L.
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| Habit: Deciduous Shrub |
| Habitat: Thickets on sandy soil near swamps and marshes[43], also on dry arid hills in which situation it is often only a few centimeters tall[82]. |
| Height: 9.0 Width: 3.0 |
Cultivation Details:
Prefers a moist soil[200]. Grows well in an open position in a well-drained soil in sun or light shade[200]. Thrives in any ordinary garden soil according to one report[11] whilst another says that it thrives in an acid soil[182]. Prefers a lime-free loamy or peaty soil[1].
Plants can be evergreen in areas with warmer winters than in Britain[227].
Some reports say that the plant is dioecious whilst others say it is monoecious. It is most likely that both forms exist[82, K].
A polymorphic species[11], there are some named forms. 'Myda' is a large-fruited female form of low growth[182].
The fruits can hang on the plant for several years[213].
Closely related to M. pensylvanica, with which it hybridizes[43].
Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[200].
Many species in this genus have a symbiotic relationship with certain soil micro-organisms, these form nodules on the roots of the plants and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[200].
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Propagation Notes:
Seed - best sown as soon as ripe in the autumn in a cold frame[78]. Stored seed germinates more freely if given a 3 month cold stratification and then sown in a cold frame[78]. Germination is usually good[78]. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow on in pots for the first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer[K].
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 5 - 8cm with a heel, July/August in a frame. Pot up and overwinter in a cold frame then plant out in late spring or early summer. Fair to good percentage[78].
Layering in spring[200].
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