Oak-leafed waxberry

Morella quercifolia

Scientific name

Small shrubby plant with upright stems, flat elongated leaves with irregular oak-like edging, and a yellow flower in winter.

Pioneer species used for stabilisation and re-vegetation especially on sandy soils but it grows in loamy soils too. Requires sun or partial shade and does best with compost, mulch and water.

Attracts birds and insects but requires both male and female plant to produce berry fruit but wind-pollinated.

Grow from seeds or cuttings taken in spring. Use semi-hardwood sections and rooting hormone.

Medicinal use includes treating stomach ache as recorded by early settlers.

Previously Myrica quercifolia

References and further reading

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