Wax Myrtle - Bayberry Wild Cinnamon, Southern Bayberry, Wax Myrtle, Southern Wax Myrtle

Myrica cerifera

Physical Characteristics

Myrica cerifera is an evergreen Shrub growing to 9 m (29ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from April to June, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile. It can fix Nitrogen. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

South-eastern N. America. Possibly naturalized in S. England[50].

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Condiment Tea Fruit - raw or cooked[105, 177, 183]. The fruit is about 3mm in diameter with a large seed[200]. There is very little edible flesh and the quality is poor[K]. Leaves and berries are used as a food flavouring[62, 105, 177]. They make an aromatic, attractive and agreeable substitute for bay leaves, and can be used in flavouring soups, stews etc[183]. The dried leaves are brewed into a robust tea[183].

Medicinal Uses

Antibacterial Astringent Dysentery Emetic Narcotic Sternutatory Stimulant Tonic Wax myrtle is a popular herbal remedy in North America where it is employed to increase the circulation, stimulate perspiration and keep bacterial infections in check[254]. The plant should not be used during pregnancy[254]. The root bark is antibacterial, astringent, emetic (in large doses), sternutatory, stimulant and tonic[4, 21, 46, 165, 213, 254]. It is harvested in the autumn, thoroughly dried then powdered and kept in a dark place in an airtight container[4]. It is used internally in the treatment of diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome, jaundice, fevers, colds, influenza, catarrh, excessive menstruation, vaginal discharge etc[4, 238, 254]. Externally, it is applied to indolent ulcers, sore throats, spongy gums, sores, itching skin conditions, dandruff etc[4, 238, 254]. The wax is astringent and slightly narcotic[4]. It is regarded as a sure cure for dysentery and is also used to treat internal ulcers[4]. A tea made from the leaves is used in the treatment of fevers and externally as a wash for itchy skin[222].

Known Hazards

There is a report that some of the constituents of the wax are carcinogenic[222]. Vomiting in large doses. Constituent myricadiol may cause salt retention and potassium excretion [301]. Avoid if high blood pressure or kidney disease. Tannin constituents may cause gastrointestinal irritation and liver damage [301].