Northern Bayberry (Bareroot)

Northern bayberry is a native shrub suited to hedgerows, riparian and wetland plantings, and wildlife forage. For larger plantings, bareroot stock offers a cost-effective option for late fall and early spring dormant planting, provided plants are planted correctly and watered consistently during establishment.

Morella pensylvanica grows 3–12 ft tall and up to 10 ft wide, with flowers appearing in August and September. Its berries persist into winter and are eaten by birds. Northern bayberry is also a larval host to the Columbia silkmoth and many other caterpillars.

Northern bayberry grows in part sun and moist soil. It tolerates well-drained, rich, mucky, acidic, clay, loam, and sandy soils. It also tolerates salt spray and somewhat salty soils, and is moderately deer resistant. Its native range includes the Northeast, Southeast, and Midwest.

With its wildlife value, salt tolerance, and dense growth habit, northern bayberry is suited to hedgerows and moist landscape plantings. When planted correctly and given consistent watering, bareroot plants can establish and develop into mature shrubs. Bareroot stock is offered for late fall and early spring dormant planting.