Myrica quercifolia L.
Half hardy evergreen shrub with lobed, oak-like leaves, the axillary flowers in catkins, followed by round berries which exude a wax when ripe, this drying to a white, scaly powder. to 1m. [JD, Pappe – Silva Capensis p.45/1862].
Horticultural & Botanical History
Introduced to Britain in 1752. The common name derives from the high yield of wax derived from Myrica cerifera and its use in making candles. [JD]. Figured in Fragmenta Botanica [Jacquin pl.1/1809]. Myrica quercifolia is the oak-leaved plant on the far left.
History at Camden Park
Listed in all published catalogues. Possibly imported to assess its value as a source of candle wax. See also Myrica cerifera L.
Notes
Published Mar 23, 2009 - 04:25 PM | Last updated Mar 24, 2010 - 05:08 PM
Myrica quercifolia L. | Jacquin pl.1/1809 | BHL. Myrica quercifolia is the oak-leaved plant on the far left.
| Family | Myricaceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | South Africa |
| Synonyms |
|
| Common Name | Candleberry myrtle |
| Name in the Camden Park Record | Myrica quercifolia |
| Confidence level | high |