Care of the tree Myrica faya or Fire tree |
The genus Myrica, family Myricaceae, includes 40 species of trees and shrubs native to all continents except Australasia. Some species are: Myrica faya, Myrica rubra, Myrica gale, Myrica californica, Myrica serrata. Common names: Fire tree, Candleberry myrtle, Firebush, Fayatree. This species is native to the Canary Islands. They are trees or shrubs that reach 15 meters (49.2 feet) in height but usually do not exceed 6 meters (19.68 feet). The leaves are evergreen, lustrous, leathery and with serrated edges. These dioecious plants can be hermaphroditic and produce flowers of both sexes; these flowers are not decorative. Fire tree is used for informal hedges, as isolated specimens, in bushy groups, as windbreaks and in water gardens. It's ideal for coastal gardens and low maintenance garden areas. Myrica faya grows in semi-shade or shade exposures. It does not resist frost or intense cold. They can grow in any soil: sandy, clay, muddy, dry, or poorly drained. Water regularly so that the substrate is always wet but without waterlogging. Candleberry myrtle does not need fertilizers. Prune after flowering to remove dry branches. Myrica faya is a resistant plant to the usual pests and diseases. Fire tree is propagated by woody cuttings in early fall or from seeds sown in fall. |
Images of the tree Myrica faya or Fire tree |