Description
Sweet Gale is a hardy, aromatic shrub well-suited for Massachusetts gardens, thriving in wet, infertile soils while offering natural insect-repelling foliage. It produces distinctive waxy yellow berries in mid-summer, which serve as a high-energy food source for birds. With both male and female plants, this unique native species adds ornamental interest to naturalized landscapes.
In early spring, Sweet Gale features subtle chartreuse catkins that emerge from brown buds, enhancing its seasonal charm. The narrow, fragrant leaves have a silvery-green underside and remain attractive throughout the growing season. This multi-stemmed deciduous shrub has a mounded form that blends well with other perennials, making it a great choice for wetland gardens and shoreline plantings.
New to planting? We’ve got you covered with our Trees & Shrubs Planting Guide.
Each plant comes in a #2 (2 gallon) growers container. The image shown represents an example of what you may receive. Please note that the height, shape, and fullness of each plant may vary due to natural growth patterns. Rest assured, we will select the healthiest and most vibrant plant for you.
*This plant may not be in bloom at the time of purchase. Whether pre- or post-bloom, rest assured it’s healthy—just not at its showiest.
Plant Specs:
Botanical Name: Myrica gale
Light: part shade – full shade
Watering: around every 7 – 10 days
Soil: wet, infertile soil
Zone: 1 – 8
Plant Shape: mounded
Plant Type: multi-stemmed deciduous shrub
Mature Size: height (6'), width (6')
Blooming Season: flowers early – late spring, fruit mid summer
Growth Rate: fast
Pollination: needs a male and female plant to produce berries
Have any questions or need help finding the right plant? Contact Customer Service via the blue chat to call, text, or email. We are happy to help!
