The treatment 'The Myricaceae of the United States and Canada: genera, subgenera, and series.' by Wilbur R.L., published in Sida 16:, , proposed dividing the genus Myrica into three genera. This seems to be gaining acceptance and so this species has now been moved from Myrica to the genus Morella[].

Common Name: Chinese Bayberry

General Information

Chinese Bayberry is an evergreen shrub or tree growing up to 15 metres tall with a bole up to 60cm in diameter[].
The plant is commonly cultivated in China for its edible fruit. It also has medicinal properties and is the source of a yellow dye.

Known Hazards

Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, there is a report for some members of this genus that some of the constituents of the wax might be carcinogenic[].

Botanical References

, ,

Range

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Habitat

Forests of C. and S. Japan[]. Coastal districts in warm countries[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Shrub
Height	15.00 m
Pollinators	Wind
Cultivation Status	Cultivated, Wild

Cultivation Details

Prefers a moist soil. Grows well in an open position in a well-drained soil in sun or light shade[]. Thrives in any ordinary garden soil[]. Prefers a lime-free loamy or peaty soil[].
This plant has been recommended for improvement by selection and breeding for its edible fruit[].
Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[].
Many species in this genus have a symbiotic relationship with certain soil micro-organisms, these form nodules on the roots of the plants and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[].

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked[, ]. Succulent and aromatic[], it has an agreeable sub-acid taste[]. Juicy, sweetish and sour according to another report[]. The fruit soon rots so it is difficult to grow commercially because of the problems of getting it to market in good condition[]. The fruit is up to 25mm in diameter[].

The seed is said to be edible[, , ].

Medicinal

Astringent, carminative, vulnerary[, ].

The stem bark is used as a wash in the treatment of arsenic poisoning, skin diseases, wounds and ulcers[].

The fruit is carminative, pectoral and stomachic[].

The seed is used in the treatment of sweaty feet[].

The plant is used in the treatment of cholera, heart ailments and stomach diseases[].

Other Uses

A yellow dye is obtained from the plant[]. (The part of the plant is not specified, but is probably the tannin-rich bark[]).

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe. Barely cover the seed and keep it moist. Stored seed germinates more freely if given a 3 month cold stratification and then sown. Germination is usually good[]. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and plant them out when large enough.
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 5 - 8cm with a heel in a frame. Fair to good percentage[].
Cuttings of mature wood in a frame.
Layering[].
Division of suckers. Plant them out direct into their permanent positions.

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