Wax Myrtle, Southern Bayberry (Myrica cerifera)

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patp Summerville, SC(Zone 8a) Jul 13, 2003

Original shape of this plant suggested its spiral trim.

Common name: Wax Myrtle, Southern Bayberry
Family: Myricaceae
Genus: Myrica
Species cerifera

Plant Link: http://plantsdatabase.com/go/51482/

Thumbnail by patp
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DreamOfSpring Charleston, SC(Zone 9a) Jan 07, 2005

Wow. Cool shape. You've turned something ordinary into something extraordinary.

I have several of these trees in my yard. I keep them because the birds love them both for nesting and for the seeds, but I never really liked mine. Mine are just trimmed like large spheres. But yours are awesome. I never even considered that I could make creative topiary art forms out of them. I love it. Thanks for the idea. Sheryl

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patp Summerville, SC(Zone 8a) Jan 08, 2005

scutler, glad you are inspired. We too have many Wax Myrtles trimmed rounded at the top. I enjoy looking at the branch patterns beneath the Myrtles. My husband planted one beneath the kitchen window, and I enjoy watching the birds frolic on top as I wash dishes. I don't think I appreciated the free bushes until noticing how attractive they were in front of landscaped buildings. Perhaps they're an acquired "taste."

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DreamOfSpring Charleston, SC(Zone 9a) Jan 09, 2005

You have TRULY given me a new appreciation for these very tough little trees. They are very common around here. (As you can see, I am practically a neighbor - Magnolia Gardens area.) And to be honest these little trees do have a lot going for them. They are practically indestructible. And I do love the wonderful aroma they emit when pruned. And they are popular with the birds. But until I saw yours I always found them rather ordinary. Now I see that they only seemed so due to my lack of creative insight. I can't wait to give mine the "Edward Scissorhands" effect! Thanks, again for the great idea.



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darlenenelson Amory, MS Jan 09, 2005

i guess i need to go get me a wax myrtle,
great pic!

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patp Summerville, SC(Zone 8a) Jan 10, 2005

Sheryl, one of my daughters lives in Village Green. Since you live so close, have you noticed native Sparkleberry bushes growing in the woods and along the woodline? They're one of my favorite bushes. I missed getting pictures while they were in bloom last year but you can get an idea of their beauty here: http://davesgarden.com/pf/go/31655/index.html. Their branching can be very graceful, somehow reminding me of an Oriental flower arrangement.

Darlene, it wouldn't be too surprising if you have some of the same native plants that we have in the Lowcountry of SC. Good luck and happy planting.

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