Plant Details

Myrica heterophylla

Bayberry

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Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Myrica heterophylla.

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Common names

3 names · 3 languages
EnglishYour language
  • Bayberry
Other languages (2)
Dutch
  • Gagel
French
  • Myrique baumier
Sources & name notes

Names recorded in our plant catalogue, grouped by language. Usage can vary by region.

General information

Scientific name: Myrica heterophylla
Accepted name (Kew): Myrica caroliniensis View name reference ↗

Accepted in the cited taxonomic treatment. Botanical references may use alternative names.

Sources [1]
Botanical family: Myricaceae

Kew's family placement for the genus Myrica (WCVP v16).

Sources [1]
Also known as: Bayberry

Plant characteristics

Layer: Shrub
Catalogue size class: Small
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: - m
Growth rate: Moderate
Foliage: Evergreen

Growing conditions

USDA hardiness: 5-9
Soil moisture:
Moist, Wet
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Light:
Partial shade, Full sun

Uses

Edible parts:
Condiment, Fruit, Tea
Edibility rating:
(3)
Medicinal rating:
(2)
Functions:
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

Harvest starts: 01/09
Harvest ends: 30/11

Sources and references

References for the information marked with source numbers on this page.

Sources checked
  1. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew World Checklist of Vascular Plants, version 16, extracted 4 June 2026
    Supports: TaxonomyBotanical family
    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.