Faya Tree

morella faya

Also known as: ["Bayberry Tree","Faya"]

Family: Myricaceae Genus: Morella Category: Trees

Overview

A small evergreen tree native to the Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands, known for its aromatic foliage and small, waxy fruits.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fagales
Family: Myricaceae
Genus: Morella
Botanical Name: Morella faya

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: coastal areas or sheltered garden spots
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, acidic soil with organic matter

pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme cold or heat.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during spring and summer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning of branches; avoid cutting into old wood unless necessary.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or overgrown branches to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season.

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; use fresh soil to replenish nutrients.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant's roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity; use compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in cold; leaf scorch or stunted growth in heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; use a space heater if necessary.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use a fan for air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Morella faya may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as mealybugs, which disrupt nutrient uptake and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Morella faya can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to root damage and impaired water absorption.

Leaf spots on Morella faya may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting in Morella faya is often associated with root or stem rot caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Morella faya, especially the seeds and berries. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects, requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek emergency veterinary care. Monitor the cat closely for any signs of distress.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of the seeds and berries of Morella faya can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity. The alkaloids present in these parts can cause adverse reactions, particularly in smaller breeds or sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal discomfort
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian promptly. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance.
Humans
Toxic

The seeds and berries of Morella faya contain toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's toxicity is primarily due to the presence of alkaloids and other bioactive substances that interfere with normal physiological processes.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any parts of the plant. Keep away from children and pets. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Faya Tree suitable for cold climates?

A: The Faya Tree prefers mild to warm climates and may not thrive in very cold regions.

Q: Does the Faya Tree produce edible fruits?

A: The fruits are small and waxy but are not commonly consumed by humans.

Q: How fast does the Faya Tree grow?

A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically reaching maturity over several years.

Quick Reference
Family: Myricaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Wax Myrtle
View
Sweetfern
View
Bog Myrtle
View