Bayberry
Bayberries are aromatic berries from evergreen shrubs, traditionally used for candles, flavoring, and ornamental purposes.
About Bayberry
Bayberries come from the Myrica genus, which includes several species of evergreen shrubs and small trees native to North America and parts of Asia. The berries are small, round, and typically coated with a waxy substance that has historically been used in candle making. While not commonly eaten fresh due to their astringent taste, bayberries are used for flavor extracts, teas, and traditional medicines. The leaves are fragrant and often used in seasoning or for decorative purposes. Bayberries thrive in sandy, acidic soils, and their hardy shrubs are valued for landscaping and ecological purposes.
Gallery
Seasonality
Growing Regions
Categories
Characteristics
Scientific Name
Myrica pensylvanica (common American bayberry)
Colour
Texture
Calories
100 per 100g
Taste Profile
Ripeness Indicators
Berries fully formed, waxy coating intact, leaves dark green and fragrant
Edible Parts
Leaves (used in teas or seasonings), wax used industrially; berries are mostly inedible raw
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