Hobbies And Interests
Trees
Though classified as a shrub, you can transform a wax myrtle into a small tree because it can grow up to 20 feet in height and 12 feet in width. Simply prune the lower branches away and enjoy the appearance and shade of your wax myrtle tree.
Hedges
Trim wax myrtle shrubs into a hedge. Plant the hedges around decks, patios or windows for a natural privacy screen. Wax myrtle is an attractive feature when used to line walkways, driveways and roads.
Beach Plant
If you live on a beach and want to add some color to your landscape, plant wax myrtle. These versatile plants can stand up against drought, sand, sun and salt spray.
Holiday Decorations
With their dark glossy leaves and small grayish-white berries that appear in late summer and last throughout winter, wax myrtle branches make beautiful decorations for your home, as garlands or in vases. However, only female shrubs produce berries.
Folklore Uses
According to folklore, wax myrtle leaves will ward off fleas. To keep cockroaches away, place a sprig of wax myrtle in a closet or drawer. However, these uses have not been scientifically proved.
Candle Making
In Colonial times, people used the berries of the wax myrtle to make candles by boiling the berries, cooling them and then skimming off the hardened wax from the water. Wax myrtle berries produce aromatic candles that burn cleanly.
Attracting Wildlife
If you love bird watching, plant wax myrtle in your yard. The berries and cover these plants provide attract birds such as ducks, geese, quail and dove in the winter months when food is scarce. Wax myrtle also attracts deer, which use the shrubs for shelter.