Myrica pensylvanica

Plant Details

Back

General Information

Scientific name: Myrica pensylvanica
Also known as: Northern bayberry

Plant Properties

Layer: Shrub
Format: Smal
Height: 3.00 m
Width: 3.00 m
Growth Rate: -
Leaf: Deciduous

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 2-9
Soil Moisture:
Moist, Wet
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acid Neutral
Light:
Half shade, Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Condiment, Fruit
Edibility:
(3)
Medicinal:
(1)
Features:
Nitrogen, Dye, Hedge, Wax, Carbon farming

Description

The fruits and leaves of this plant can be eaten both raw and cooked. The fruits are about 4 mm in diameter and contain a large seed, with little edible flesh. They are primarily used as a seasoning in soups and stews. The leaves serve as an excellent substitute for bay leaves due to their fine aroma and subtle flavor. Before serving, the leaves or fruits are usually removed from the dishes.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/09
End of Harvest: 31/10

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild Description
Amelanchier alnifolia
Serviceberry
Companion plants like Amelanchier can provide edible fruits that complement the berries produced by Myrica, enhancing biodiversity and attracting pollinators.
Corylus avellana
Hazel
Corylus avellana, or hazelnut, can offer nuts while also serving as a windbreak, protecting Myrica from harsh winds.
Ribes rubrum
Redcurrant, Whitecurrant
Ribes rubrum (red currant) produces fruits that can thrive in the same conditions as Myrica, creating a fruitful guild.
Prunus cerasifera
Cherry plum
Prunus cerasifera, or cherry plum, adds aesthetic value with its flowers, and its fruits can be harvested along with those of Myrica.
Salix alba
Willow
Salix alba (white willow) can help with moisture retention in the soil and may serve as a habitat for beneficial insects.
Rubus idaeus
Raspberry
Rubus idaeus (raspberry) can create a berry-rich environment and may benefit from the nitrogen-fixing ability of Myrica.