Northern Bayberry is a dense-branching native semi-evergreen shrub with a rounded habit.  The narrow glossy grey-green foliage is aromatic when crushed and covers the inconspicuous flowers that if pollinated give way to tiny clusters of aromatic blue-grey berries that persist into winter.  Grows best in moist acidic soils.  Can be considered a fire hazard in some areas, as the aromatic compounds of the foliage and stems are flammable.

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  Low maintenance plant.  No serious pests or diseases.  Can tolerate both drought and wet soils.

LANDSCAPE USES: Accents and Group Plantings,  Borders, Rock Gardens, Woodland Gardens, Naturalized Areas, Wildlife Garden, Ponds and Streams, Hedges, Foundation Plantings, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS: Dogwood, Sedge, Turtlehead

Image: Photo by Leonora (Ellie) Enking, Bayberry (Myrica pensylvanica)