Wax Myrtle
Morella cerifera
Last reviewed: June 2026
Morella cerifera (Wax Myrtle) is an evergreen shrub native from Delaware to Texas that blooms March through May. This adaptable plant tolerates various light and moisture conditions while supporting butterfly populations.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Wax Myrtle as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
72"–240" H × 48"–120" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
DE, TX
Pollinators
butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Wax Myrtle is a versatile evergreen shrub native to Texas that can be maintained as a compact hedge or allowed to grow into a small tree. It produces small waxy berries that persist through winter and has aromatic foliage that releases a pleasant scent when brushed. This adaptable plant tolerates various soil conditions and requires minimal care once established.
Growing Wax Myrtle
Grow Wax Myrtle in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 72 to 240 inches tall and spread 48 to 120 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wax Myrtle takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Height exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
Wildlife value
Attracts butterflies during its spring bloom period and provides important food for birds through its waxy berries. The dense evergreen foliage offers year-round nesting sites and shelter for wildlife.
Common questions
- What regions is Wax Myrtle native to?
- Morella cerifera is native to southeastern United States, with its range extending from Delaware south to Texas along the coastal plain.
- When does Wax Myrtle bloom?
- Wax Myrtle produces small flowers from March through May, typically before the new leaves emerge in spring.
- What pollinators does Wax Myrtle attract?
- Wax Myrtle supports various butterfly species and also provides habitat for native bees and other beneficial insects.
- What growing conditions does Wax Myrtle prefer?
- This adaptable shrub grows in full sun to partial sun and tolerates a wide range of moisture conditions from wet to dry soils.
- Is Wax Myrtle toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Wax Myrtle as toxic to livestock.
- Is Wax Myrtle HOA-friendly?
- Wax Myrtle takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Wax Myrtle fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.