Simpson's Stopper (Myrcianthes fragrans)
Simpson's Stopper is a fruiting shrub or small tree native to Florida, among other exotic locales like the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America, all the way south through Colombia and Venezuela. It is a member of the Eucalyptus family and produces springtime flowers, colorful berries, and fragrant evergreen leaves.
The leaves have a warm nostalgic fall-like aroma when crushed - think spicey cinnamon and citrus. The showy white flowers are also very fragrant and are followed by red-orange berries in mid-summer and early fall. While these berries are edible and the fast-growing shrub is heavily utilized as a popular landscaping hedge, the plants are not often grown for the citrusy flavored berry - yet. I'll admit that the flavor and texture won't absolutely knock your socks off, but it's not unpalatable by any means and it really is a beautiful and useful native shrub. We love the look, texture, fragrance, and pop of color that growing Simpon's Stopper adds to our edible landscape!
Plant Type:
Evergreen Fruiting Tree
Harvest Season:
Summer, Fall
The overall look and size of your Simpson's Stopper plant will depend on the amount of sun it's exposed to. When planted in full sun, Simpson's Stopper forms a densely growing plant that makes a great hedge. In partial shade, the foliage is slightly less dense and affords a better view of the exfoliating bark and super cool branching.
Soil & Moisture:
Prefers well-draining soil but can also handle slight periods of standing water AND is highly drought tolerant. This here is one hardy shrub!
Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Fast
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 8-11(with frost protection below zone 8); Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation:
Grown from seed, ready to harvest within 2-3 years
