Deciduous Shrub – Salt Myrtle

Salt Myrtle 

Botanical name: baccharis halimifolia 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 12-14 ft in height and in spread 

Hardy zone: zones 5-11 

Growth rate: grows 1-3 ft per year 

Foliage color: green/gray 

Flower color: yellow/white

Bloom time:  summer

Pruning instructions: prune in the late winter/early before new growth begins to emerge to maintain desired shape and size 

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings during the fall and winter months 

Landscape use: coastal buffer, windbreaker, erosion control 

Special features: attracts pollinators, disease resistant, cold-hardy, fragrant blooms 

Light needs: 6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release tree and shrub fertilizer once a year in the early-mid spring 

Best time to plant: spring, fall 

Best type of soil:  clay, loam 

Companion plants: muhly grass, yaupon holly, wax myrtle 

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no