wax myrtle

American  

noun

1. an aromatic shrub, Myrica cerifera, of the southeastern U.S., bearing small berries coated with wax that is sometimes used in making candles.

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wax myrtle British  

noun

1. Also called: bayberry.   candleberry.   waxberry.  a shrub, Myrica cerifera, of SE North America, having evergreen leaves and a small berry-like fruit with a waxy coating: family Myricaceae

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Etymology

Origin of wax myrtle

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

Not only does wax myrtle take well to hedging, but the plant also provides winter berries and shelter for birds year-round.

From Seattle Times

Southern wax myrtle hails from coastal New Jersey to Texas but is a handsome garden plant, and many dwarf varieties have been developed.

From Washington Post

And be sure to layer in bird-favorite Northwest natives like California wax myrtle, serviceberry and evergreen huckleberry.

From Seattle Times

Bands of dune grass segued to clumps of wax myrtle and stands of pine trees.

From Washington Post

We parked at Pajarito and found the trailhead called Ajugal, where it dipped into a damp canopy of wax myrtle and mahogany laurel.

From New York Times