The Wax Myrtle (Morella cerifera or Myrica cerifera) is a popular, fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree native to the coastal and swampy regions of the Southeastern United States. Valued for its adaptability, fragrant foliage, and dense structure, it is an excellent choice for privacy screening and windbreaks. Its rapid growth rate is a primary consideration for homeowners planning their landscapes.
How Fast Wax Myrtles Grow Annually
The Wax Myrtle is characterized by a rapid growth rate, often classified as “very fast” in horticultural terms. Under typical conditions, a healthy plant adds between 1 and 3 feet of new growth each year. This consistent annual increase makes it a favored option for creating living screens quickly. In optimal environments, growth can accelerate significantly, sometimes achieving 3 to 5 feet in a single growing season. This maximum rate is typically seen in younger plants focusing on expansion, while established plants moderate their pace, focusing on density rather than height.
Environmental Conditions That Impact Speed
Achieving the fastest growth depends on specific environmental factors, though the plant tolerates poor conditions well. Sunlight is a major determinant of growth speed and foliage density. While the species tolerates partial shade, it grows most vigorously in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct light daily.
Water availability is also a significant factor. Although established plants are moderately drought-tolerant, they require consistent moisture during their first season to maximize growth and develop an extensive root system. The plant’s natural habitat includes wet areas, allowing it to tolerate periodic flooding and poor drainage better than many other shrubs.
The Wax Myrtle adapts to various soil types, from sand to heavy clay. It grows best in slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen allows it to flourish even in infertile soils. However, highly alkaline soil can reduce growth and cause iron chlorosis, which results in yellowing between the leaf veins.
Mature Dimensions and Pruning Needs
The Wax Myrtle typically matures into a large shrub or small tree, reaching 10 to 20 feet in height and spread in most landscapes. In ideal settings, specimens can reach up to 25 feet. This potential size and rapid growth make the plant highly effective for use as a tall privacy screen or informal hedge.
Due to its fast growth and tendency to form a multi-stemmed canopy, the Wax Myrtle responds well to pruning. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain a compact, dense shape for formal hedges. Its rapid regrowth allows it to recover quickly from heavy shearing, enabling precise control over its dimensions. It can also be trained into a small tree form by removing lower branches to expose the multi-trunk structure. Proactive maintenance is required to remove root suckers, ensuring the plant directs energy toward its main structure.