Native Shrubs and Trees
Northern Bayberry
Morella pensylvanica
$49.99
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Ships the week of October 19.
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All shrubs and trees ship as 1 gallon pots.
1 Plant
$49.99/plant
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$44.99/plant
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Easy Planting
About this Plant
Northern Bayberry is a rugged, aromatic shrub with rich green, leathery foliage and a naturally rounded shape. Though its flowers are subtle, this native standout earns attention in fall and winter, when its gray, waxy berries cluster tightly along the stems. These fragrant berries are not only a food source for birds like eastern bluebirds and tree swallows, but have long been used to make traditional bayberry candles. Its adaptability and resilience make it perfect for poor, dry, or salty soils, especially in coastal or naturalized plantings.
Why Choose Northern Bayberry?
- Fragrant foliage and berries offer sensory appeal year-round.
- Supports wildlife with late-season berries for birds.
- Extremely hardy – thrives in poor, sandy, or salty soils.
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Low-maintenance and tough – great for erosion control or informal hedges.
Maintenance Tips
- Prune lightly in early spring to shape or rejuvenate older plants.
- Avoid rich soils or overwatering – bayberry prefers lean, well-drained conditions.
- Mulch in the first year to conserve moisture while roots establish.
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Can sucker to form colonies—cut back unwanted shoots if containment is desired.
Maintenance Tips
- Tolerates drought once established; water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.
- Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the shrub and encourage vigorous growth. Can be pruned heavily if needed.
- Adapts to a wide range of soil conditions, including sandy, rocky, and clay soils; prefers well-drained soils.
- Apply a layer of mulch to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and provide nutrient-rich organic matter.
- Low maintenance; monitor for pests and diseases, but generally resistant to major problems.
Details
Soil Types
-
Soil Moisture
-
Sun Exposure
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Hardiness Zone
USDA 3–7
Plant Type
Shrub
Mature Height
-
Mature Width
-
Bloom Color
Green-Yellow
Bloom Time
-
Root Type
Fibrous / Rhizome
Northern Bayberry
$49.99
Ecological Benefits
Attracts Pollinators
Provides nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators.
Birds
Seeds or berries provide food for birds.
Butterfly Host
Supports butterfly caterpillars as a host plant.
Yard Friendly
A well-behaved growth habit that won't take over your yard.
Drought Tolerant
Thrives with minimal watering once established.
Deer Resistant
Less likely to be browsed by deer.
Soil Stabilizing
Deep roots help prevent erosion and stabilize soil.
Pet Safe
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
What Folks Are Saying
“It's like following a recipe. Choosing from multiple designs is fun.” - Kari

“The process from the website to getting the plants, could not have been easier or more seamless.” - Justin

“I can't believe that we are the house with this beautiful garden.” - Howard

“I've never planted anything in my life. And this was actually quite fun.” - Steve

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