How to Grow and Care for Calusa Bush

The Calusa Bush (Myrsine guianensis) is an attractive evergreen plant that brings consistent greenery to various landscapes. This species is classified within the Primulaceae family, though it was formerly grouped under Myrsinaceae. As a native plant, Myrsine guianensis originates from regions including Florida, Central America, and South America. Its adaptability and enduring foliage make it a resilient choice for gardeners.

Characteristics and Identification

The Calusa Bush typically grows as a dense, vertically oriented shrub, reaching heights of 15 to 20 feet with a spread of 8 to 12 feet. Older plants can develop into more spreading forms with multiple trunks, showcasing a symmetrical habit. Its evergreen foliage features smooth, oval to obovate leaves, measuring 2 to 4 inches in length, which display a medium to dark green color and a lustrous appearance. These leaves are alternately arranged and often cluster towards the ends of the stems.

Small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers emerge in clusters directly along the branches, blooming year-round. These flowers are followed by shiny, black berries. The fruit is round, fleshy, and typically less than 0.5 inches in length, serving as a food source for birds. For fruit production, it is important to have both male and female plants grown in close proximity.

Growing and Cultivating Calusa Bush

This shrub thrives in locations ranging from partial to full shade, making it a suitable option for understory plantings. While it prefers average soil with organic matter, Myrsine guianensis adapts to various soil conditions, including poor drainage and a wide range of pH levels from acidic to neutral or slightly alkaline. It tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay soils.

Once established, the Calusa Bush demonstrates high drought tolerance, but it benefits from consistent soil moisture without becoming waterlogged. Watering every one to two weeks is sufficient after the plant has settled. Fertilization is low-maintenance; while some growers apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer, it is often not strictly necessary.

Pruning should be done in early spring to encourage new growth and maintain its desired shape, with a focus on removing dead or weak branches to improve air circulation. Regular clipping is also helpful to manage its height, especially when used in foundation plantings. The plant is resistant to pests and diseases, with no major concerns reported.

Landscape Uses and Benefits

It is frequently used as a dense hedge or screen, providing effective privacy and windbreaks due to its thick, evergreen foliage. Gardeners also employ it as a specimen plant, an accent plant, or as a background element in shrub borders. Its adaptability makes it suitable for understory planting and reclamation projects.

Beyond its ornamental value, Myrsine guianensis provides ecological benefits. Its small, black berries attract various birds, contributing to local wildlife support.

The shrub also tolerates drought and salt spray, making it an excellent choice for coastal landscapes or areas with less-than-ideal water availability. It can grow in poorly drained areas, such as near foundations or water retention basins.

Important Considerations

When planning to incorporate the Calusa Bush into a landscape, its cold hardiness is a primary factor. Myrsine guianensis thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10 through 11, capable of tolerating temperatures down to approximately 23°F (-5°C). Sudden temperature changes can stress the plant, so protection measures like mulching or providing shade during extreme weather are beneficial.

The plant is not invasive, meaning it will not aggressively spread beyond its intended planting area. While birds consume the berries, they are not suitable for human consumption.

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