Overview of Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken
Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken, also known as Macfarlane's or McFarlane's bog myrtle, is a hybrid plant species that belongs to the family Myricaceae. This deciduous shrub is named after Elmer D. Youngken, who was a plant breeder and horticulturist that created the plant by crossing Myrica pensylvanica and Myrica cerifera in the mid-20th century.
Origin and Distribution
The origin of Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken can be traced back to its parent species, M. pensylvanica and M. cerifera, which are both native to North America. The hybrid plant was initially introduced and cultivated at the Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA, in 1963. Today, it can be found in other parts of the United States and Europe.
Appearance
Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken is a dense, multi-stemmed shrub that can grow up to 3-4 meters tall and wide. The leaves are alternate, simple, and elliptical, measuring 3-5 cm long and 1.5-2.5 cm wide, with a glossy green color on top and a duller grey-green hue on the underside. The bark is light grey and smooth, but it can become scaly or fissured with age.
The flowers of Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken are small, yellow-green, and appear in catkins before the leaves emerge in late winter or early spring. The male and female flowers are usually borne in separate catkins on the same plant, and pollination is facilitated by the wind. The fruit is a drupe that matures in late summer or early fall and is a bluish-grey color, about 6 mm in diameter, with a waxy coating, and contains a single seed.
Uses and Benefits
Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers, foliage, and fruits. It can be used as a specimen plant, hedge, or screen. The shrub is also valued for its tolerance to a wide range of soil types and moisture levels, making it suitable for wetland restoration, erosion control, and habitat enhancement.
In addition, Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken has been used in traditional medicine for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties. The leaves and twigs of the plant contain essential oils that have been used to treat respiratory ailments, skin conditions, and digestive issues. The fruits are edible and have a tart, fruity flavor, but they are not widely consumed due to their small size and low yield.
Overall, Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken is a versatile and attractive plant species that has both aesthetic and medicinal value.
Light Requirements
Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken grows best in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to maintain its health and vigor. In partial shade, the plant tends to grow taller and spindly with fewer leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in temperate climates with mild winters. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -5°C but prefers a range of 10°C to 27°C during the growing season. Extreme heat can cause stress to the plant, leading to wilting and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-drained. The soil should be rich in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, which helps retain moisture and nutrients.
Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken is sensitive to salt and requires soil that is low in salt. The plant benefits from regular application of a general-purpose fertilizer during the growing season. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can cause root rot.
Cultivation methods for Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken
Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken is commonly propagated by cuttings or by layering. Cuttings should be collected in the spring or summer, treated with a rooting hormone, and planted in well-drained soil. Layering can be done by pinning down a low branch and burying it in the soil until it develops roots.
It is best to plant Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken in a sunny or partially shaded location with well-drained soil. The plant can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including alkaline soils, but does not do well in wet or poorly-drained soils.
Watering needs for Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken
Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. However, it is essential not to overwater the plant, as this can cause root rot and other problems.
It is best to water Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken early in the morning or late in the day when the sun is not too hot, and the water has a chance to soak into the soil before evaporating. A layer of mulch around the plant can help retain moisture in the soil.
Fertilization for Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken
Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken can benefit from fertilization, particularly in the early years of growth. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, or a slow-release fertilizer specific for shrubs, can be applied in the spring or fall.
It is essential to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and avoid overfeeding the plant as this can lead to excessive growth and weakened branches.
Pruning for Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken
Pruning can help maintain the shape of the plant and promote healthy growth. It is best to prune Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Dead or diseased branches should be removed, and any crossing or rubbing branches should be trimmed to prevent damage. It is also possible to prune Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken to encourage bushier growth by cutting back the tips of the branches.
Propagation of Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken
Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken, commonly known as Macfarlane's or McFarlane's bayberry, is a hybrid species of the Myrica genus. The plant is a cross between Myrica pensylvanica and Myrica cerifera and is known for its ornamental value.
Propagation methods
The propagation of Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken can be done through several methods including seed propagation, cuttings, and layering.
Seed propagation
The plant produces seeds in the fall, which can be collected and stored in a cool and dry place until the following spring. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the outer layer, then planted in a well-draining soil mix. The seedlings will require regular watering and should be kept in a shaded area until they are established.
Cuttings
Hardwood cuttings taken from mature plants in the fall or winter can be used for propagation. The cutting should be approximately 6-8 inches long and should be taken from the base of a healthy stem. It should be dipped in rooting hormone then planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a shaded area. The soil should be kept moist, and the cutting should root in about 6-8 weeks.
Layering
Layering is another effective method of propagating Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken. It involves bending a low-hanging branch of the plant, then pinning it to the ground and covering it with soil. The area covered with soil should be kept moist, and roots will form at the point where the stem meets the soil. The new plant can be separated from the mother plant in the spring.
Overall, Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken is a relatively easy plant to propagate through several methods such as seed cultivation, cuttings, and layering. With proper care, the plant can be propagated successfully and add to the greenery of your garden or landscape.
Disease Management
Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken is generally a healthy plant, but it may be affected by some common plant diseases. Recognizing the symptoms of these diseases and taking appropriate measures can help prevent further damage and promote plant growth.
Sooty mold is a fungal disease that can affect Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken. This disease appears as a black, powdery coating on the plant's leaves. It is usually caused by insect infestations, such as aphids, scale insects, or whiteflies. To manage this disease, you should control the insects that spread it. You can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat affected plants.
Anthracnose is another common fungal disease that affects Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken. This disease appears as small, dark spots or lesions on the plant's leaves. It can cause the leaves to yellow and fall off the plant. To manage this disease, you should remove infected leaves and branches and dispose of them properly. You can also use a fungicide to treat the plant.
Phytophthora root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken. This disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent this disease, you should avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil is well-draining. If you suspect that your plant has this disease, you can use a fungicide to manage it.
Pest Management
Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken may also be affected by some common plant pests. These pests can damage the plant's leaves, bark, and roots. Taking appropriate measures can help prevent further damage and promote plant growth.
Aphids are one of the most common pests that affect Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken. These pests are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant's sap. They can cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings, to help control the infestation.
Scale insects are another common pest that affects Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken. These pests are small, hard-shelled insects that feed on the plant's sap. They can cause the leaves to yellow and fall off the plant. To manage scale insects, you can use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. You can also scrape them off the plant with a soft brush or cotton swab.
Spider mites are also a common pest that affects Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken. These pests are tiny, eight-legged insects that feed on the plant's sap. They can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off the plant. To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also spray the plant with water to knock off the mites.
Inspect your Myrica ×macfarlanei Youngken plant regularly to identify any signs of disease or pest infestation. Early intervention can prevent further damage and promote plant growth.
