Myrica heterophylla
Bayberry
Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Myrica heterophylla.
Plant photos
2 photos · Select to enlarge
Morella caroliniensis cultivar 'Robbie Green'.
Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo details
Resized and converted to WebP. No content edits.
Source: File:Morella carolinensis Robbie Green 1zz.jpg
Reviewed . Source identification, photograph and license reviewed. The image illustrates the named plant; it does not verify dimensions or other plant traits.
Leaves of Myrica caroliniensis.
jillllybean / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
Photo details
Resized and converted to WebP. No content edits.
Source: File:Morella carolina 2 (16155258528).jpg
Reviewed . Source identification, photograph and license reviewed. The image illustrates the named plant; it does not verify dimensions or other plant traits.
Common names
3 names · 3 languages- EnglishYour language
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- Bayberry
Other languages (2)
- Dutch
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- Gagel
- French
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- Myrique baumier
Sources & name notes
Names recorded in our plant catalogue, grouped by language. Usage can vary by region.
General information
Accepted in the cited taxonomic treatment. Botanical references may use alternative names.
Sources [1]Plant characteristics
Growing conditions
Moist, Wet
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Partial shade, Full sun
Uses
Condiment, Fruit, Tea
Nitrogen fixer, Dye, Hedge, Wax, Wood
Description
The following information pertains to the closely related M. cerifera. As assumed, this information also applies to this species. The fruit, both raw and cooked, has a diameter of about 2 to 4 mm and contains a large seed. The edible flesh is scarce and of moderate quality. Both the leaves and berries are used as a flavoring in food. They provide an appealing alternative to bay leaves and are used to season soups, stews, and more. The dried leaves can be used to make a strong tea.
Harvest
Sources and references
References for the information marked with source numbers on this page.
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Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
World Checklist of Vascular Plants, version 16, extracted 4 June 2026
Relevant sections
- Taxonomy: WCVP version 16, wcvp_names.csv: Myrica heterophylla Raf., name ID 2500734, row 608680; Myrica caroliniensis Mill., name ID 2500721, row 239002
- Botanical family: WCVP v16, wcvp_names.csv row 610736; name ID 2501755; Myrica L.. Family column.
Source checked on .
Source data licence: CC BY 3.0.