California bayberry
plant
Also known as: California wax myrtle, Myrica californica
Quick Summary
The California bayberry (Myrica californica) is a shrub or small tree native to the Pacific coast. It is characterized by its waxy, resinous fruit.1
This plant belongs to the genus Myrica, which includes several aromatic shrubs and small trees known for their waxy berries. These berries can be boiled to extract wax, historically used for making bayberry candles. The California bayberry, also referred to as the California wax myrtle, is sometimes used as an ornamental plant in warmer climates with sandy soils.2
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