Simpson’s stopper (Myrcianthes fragrans) is a Florida  native  that  provides  your  landscape with springtime flowering, colorful berries, and evergreen leaves. It is lovely in the garden any time of year. The evergreen leaves of this woody native contrast nicely with new growth which can range in color from pale chartreuse to deep wine. The leaves are also fragrant when crushed, giving off a spicy/ citrusy scent similar to nutmeg. The exfoliating bark of Simpson’s stopper also provides some visual interest year-round; outer bark flakes off to reveal bark in shades of reddish-brown.

When planted in full sun, Simpson’s stopper forms a densely growing plant that makes a great hedge. In partial shade, the foliage is less dense, but this just affords a better view of the exfoliating bark. Flowering occurs generally in April and May in Florida. The showy white flowers, which are also fragrant, are followed by orange to red berries in late summer and early fall. While these berries are edible for humans (excepting the seeds), they are not often considered palatable.

Simpson’s stopper is great for attracting butterflies, bees, and birds. The flowers bring in the pollinators and the dense canopy offers protection for birds, which also feed on the small red fruits. Buntings,cardinals, blue jays are some you might see enjoying the berries.

Found growing naturally in seaside hammocks, Simpson’s stopper is a great choice for coastal gardeners looking for a plant that’s tolerant of salt and alkaline growing conditions. Recommended for zones 8b to 11, Simpson’s stopper is cold hardy down to 25°F (maybe even lower) and can be used all along the East Coast as far north as Charleston, South Carolina. Not just for coastal regions, it does very well when grown inland as well. To add to its versatility, Simpson’s stopper is also drought tolerant once established and moderately wind resistant once mature.