Red Bayberry

Myrica rubra

Native to:
China, Hainan, Japan, Korea, Nansei-shoto, Philippines, Taiwan

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Myricaceae
Genus:
Myrica
Species:
Myrica rubra
USDA Symbol:
MORU3

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Tree
Height:
1500 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
mar,apr
Bloom Colors:
greenish-yellow
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★★★★★ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, small mammals

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
Prefers organic matter-rich soils in native habitats

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
Germination Time:
30–60 days
Notes:
Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 2-3 months to break dormancy.