Botanical profile

Myrica gale

Latin name
Myrica gale
Common name
Sweetgale
Type
Native shrub
Family
Myricaceae

Myrica gale, commonly known as sweet gale or bog myrtle, is a deciduous native shrub with a bushy, slightly spreading habit, particularly well-suited to moist soils and riparian environments. Its grayish-green foliage, aromatic when crushed, emits a distinctive resinous fragrance that contributes to its sensory appeal. In spring, it produces inconspicuous reddish-brown catkins before the full emergence of its leaves, adding fine texture to the natural landscape. Very hardy and tolerant of waterlogged soils, Myrica gale is ideal for rain gardens, banks, and ecological landscaping. It prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in acidic, organic, and consistently cool soils. An excellent choice for stabilizing wetlands, it attracts wildlife and contributes to local biodiversity.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 2
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate watering
Fertilization
Not necessary in organic soil
Soil type
Moist to saturated, acidic and organic
Minimum temperature
'-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Reddish-brown catkins
Fruiting
Aromatic grayish waxy berries
Foliage color
Grayish green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Bushy and spreading, naturally dense habit
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
1 to 1.2 m (39 to 48 inches)
Width
1.5 m (5 ft)
Growth rate
average
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

Repellent
Helps repel certain pests

Repellent

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.