Unpack bare roots or rhizomes on arrival and plant them within a week. Until then, keep them somewhere cool and ensure the roots remain slightly moist, never wet.
Out of season
New
Myrica gale
bog myrtle
Myrica gale, better known as bog myrtle, is one of those plants that proves small details can bring huge character to a garden. This deciduous shrub grows with a naturally suckering habit, forming loose thickets clothed in highly aromatic, narrow green leaves that release a spicy, resinous scent when brushed against. In spring, the stems carry clusters of yellow-brown catkins, lending texture and a gentle haze of colour before many other shrubs have woken up for the season. Later, small nut-like fruits follow, continuing Myrica gale’s understated but intriguing display.
Bog myrtle has long been valued not just for its ornamental charm but for its history in herbal traditions and even brewing. In a garden setting, Myrica gale adds a sense of wild beauty and works particularly well in damp or boggy soil, where other shrubs may struggle. Plant Myrica gale near a path or seating area to appreciate its fragrance whenever the foliage is touched or warmed by the sun. Whether grown as a feature plant or in a naturalistic planting scheme, Myrica gale is a versatile shrub that offers scent, seasonal interest and a whisper of wilderness right at home.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Remove the packaging straight away, check the compost and water thoroughly if dry. Check the plant’s hardiness before placing it outdoors. Plant into a border or permanent container within a month, choosing the position recommended for the variety. Keep the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil, firm gently and water well.
Soak the roots in water for three to six hours immediately before planting. Keep any crown, buds or emerging shoots above the water where possible.
Pot most bare roots into 15–20cm pots filled with peat-free multipurpose compost. Large or depth-sensitive roots, including peonies, are often best planted directly into borders.
Arrange the roots naturally without bending them. Cover the roots completely, positioning the crown and buds at the depth recommended for that particular perennial.
Keep pots in a sheltered outdoor position and water whenever the compost begins to dry. Grow on until roots hold the compost together when lifted from the pot.
Plant into a suitable border or permanent container once well rooted. Add a label and water regularly throughout the first growing season while the perennial establishes.
- Botanical name
- Myrica gale
- Flower colour
- Yellow, orange, brown
- Established height
- 1-1.5m
- Established spread
- 1-1.5m
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
-
Clump-forming
Upright - Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Yellow, orange, brown
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Plant size
- 1
- Plant spacing
- 6 plants per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
-
Sheltered
Exposed - Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- RHS Award (AGM)
- No
- Scented
- Yes
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
-
Free draining
Boggy - Soil type
-
Clay
Loam
Multipurpose compost - Suitable for
-
Pots
Large containers
Borders
Gravel gardens
Wildlife gardens
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens - Sunlight
-
Full sun
Partial shade
Dappled shade - Toxicity
- Use of Myrica during pregnancy and lactation should be avoided
- Years to establish
- 1-2 years
Perfect for pots
Fragrant
Thrives in full sun
Perennial
Fully hardy
Packed peat-free
Drought tolerant
Low maintenance
Attracts wildlife
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Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.
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From cultivation to packaging and delivery, we are always looking for ways to lessen our environmental impact.
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Our care team of horticultural experts is on hand to support you choose and garden with confidence.
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Every bulb and plant is sourced, selected and prepared with an expert eye for their quality and garden performance.
