Northern Bayberry
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

Average mature size of 5-12' tall and wide. Medium growth rate from old wood, probably fast from shoots which develop from roots.

Native Range

Newfoundland to western New York, Maryland, and North Carolina. Primarily along the seashore.

Flower and Fruit Details

Flowers borne in catkins, March-April, tend toward dioecious but may be monoecious, with male consisting of a varying number of stamens, the female consisting of a one-celled ovary with two stalkless stigmas. Sepals and petals are absent. Fruits are small drupes, gray, waxy-coated, rounded, 0.2" diameter, persisting throughout the winter. Male and female plants are required for good fruit development.

Leaf and Bark Features

No fall color. Bark is green on young somewhat agular young stems.

Culture and Care

Thrives in poor, sterile, sandy soil, full sun to half shade. Appears to be adaptable to clay soils. Chlorosis can be a problem with high pH soils, but can be reduced with soil treatments. Fairly salt tolerant. No serious disease or insect problems.

Suggested Uses

Excellent plant for massing, border, or foundation plantings.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA