Strawberry Shortcake Dwarf Wax Myrtle

Myrica cerifera ‘Strawberry Shortcake’ Strawberry Shortcake Dwarf Wax Myrtle is a compact, dense evergreen shrub with aromatic olive-green foliage. This dwarf selection stays around 2½–3 feet tall and wide, making it a great choice when you want the toughness and year-round foliage of a wax myrtle without the size of the species. Small, inconspicuous flowers appear in spring, followed by small blue-gray berries that can attract birds. A native, adaptable shrub, it tolerates a range of soil conditions, is drought tolerant once established, and is notably deer resistant. Its compact habit makes it especially useful for low borders, foundation plantings, and smaller landscapes. USDA Hardiness Zones: 7–10 Sunlight: Full sun to part sun Water Requirements: Average; drought tolerant once established Growth Rate: Moderate Mature Size: 3-4 ft tall x 3-4 ft wide Bloom Time: March–April Bloom Color: Inconspicuous Foliage Type: Evergreen; may become semi-evergreen in colder winters Foliage Color: Olive green Fruit: Small blue-gray berries; attractive to birds Maintenance: Low; little pruning needed Soil Preference: Adaptable; prefers moist, well-drained soil but tolerates a range of soil conditions Landscape Uses: Low borders, foundation plantings, compact spaces, beds, specimen planting Deer Resistance: High Special Features: Native, fragrant foliage, drought tolerant, bird friendly