Northern Bayberry

Northern bayberry is a semi-evergreen shrub. It thrives in sand dunes, along rivers, streams, and lakes. They will even grow successfully in clay soils. The foliage is a grayish green in the summer, purple to burgundy in fall and winter months. After flowering, small fragrant fruits ripen to a grayish blue and remain on the plant until mid-winter. A hint of the sweet aroma can be noticed when passing by the plant. Using a piece of a leaf makes a wonderful addition to any potpourri. Placing a leaf anywhere in a room will add a pleasant scent to the area. Requires male and female for pollination. Hardiness Zones 5-8.