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 • Jan. 13, 2024

“Though stressed and defoliated, species like dahoon holly, swamp bay, wax myrtle, coco plum and red maple are coming back.”

From Slate • Oct. 14, 2019

Bayberry tallow, a fragrant green wax obtained from the bayberry or wax myrtle; Ð called also myrtle wax.

From Webster's Unabridged Dictionary (2nd 100 Pages) by Webster, Noah