Bayberry (Myrica cerifera), packet of 30 seeds

Family: Wax Myrtle (Myricaceae)

Hardy to Zones 7 to 11

Perennial, dioecious, evergreen shrub to small tree to 25 feet.  Native to the southern US.   Traditional usage (TWM): the root bark is considered a stimulating astringent employed for treating diarrhea and dysentery. Bayberry root bark powder is an oldtime apothecary item.  The wax that surrounds the seeds is a high grade plant wax that burns clear–aromatic to the max.   I have extracted the wax by immersing the seeds in boiling water, then passing the liquid through a sieve and allowing the wax to float to the top and harden as it cools.  This may be made into high-grade smokeless candles.  Berries used in dyemaking.  The plant is often employed as an impenetrable and evergreen hedge.  Plant prefers full sun and fast-draining soils.  Scarify by rubbing on medium grit sandpaper. Sow in outdoor nursery bed or outdoor flats in the fall, winter, or very early spring, or give 6 weeks of moist refrigeration.  Work up seedlings in pots until sufficiently robust to survive the rigors of the landscape. Space trees at least 15 feet apart.

30 seeds/pkt, open pollinated, untreated, NO GMO’s