// SPECIES PROFILE · SHRUB · NATIVE

Wax myrtle

Morella cerifera

Wax myrtle (Morella cerifera) is a shrub in the — family. Native range includes AR, OK. Hardy in zones 5a–13a. Mature size 6'–40'. Blooms Mar–Apr.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: —
Group: shrub
Native range: Native to 16 U.S. states, including AL, AR, DE, FL, GA, HI…
USDA hardiness: Zones 5a–13a
Mature size: 6'–40'
Sun: Part shade
Water: High · moisture-loving
Bloom: Mar–Apr
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: native species profile

Wax myrtle (Morella cerifera) — *Morella cerifera* — Wax myrtle. Photo via Wikimedia Commons.

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Wax myrtle (Morella cerifera) is a shrub in the — family. Native range includes AR, OK. Hardy in zones 5a–13a. Mature size 6'–40'. Blooms Mar–Apr.

Why it's on this list: native species profile. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, wax myrtle pairs naturally with: American Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis), Common Rush (Juncus effusus), Common Sunflower (Helianthus annuus).