Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson's Stopper)

Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson's Stopper) white flower close up on a green plant
Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson's Stopper) white flower clusters amidst lush green foliage.

Botanical name: Myrcianthes fragrans

Common names: Simpson's Stopper, Twinberry

Family: Myrtaceae

Origin: Caribbean

USDA Plant Hardiness Map

USDA Zone: 9-11

Plant type: Fruit or edible
Fruit type: Fruit or edible
Large shrub 5-10 ft tallSmall tree 10-20 ftPlant used for bonsaiPlant form: Large bush or small tree; suitable for bonsai
Plant mature sizeMature height: 10-20 ft
Full sunSemi-shadeSun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade
Cold toleranceCold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.
Watering: Regular. Let topsoil dry slightlyWatering: Moderate. Water when top soil feels dryWatering: Regular; moderate
White, off-white flowersFlower color: White and off-white
Suitable forSuitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Fragrant plantFragrance: Fragrant; perfume plant
Plant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsWildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

Like other members of the Myrtaceae, myrtle family, Myrcianthes fragrans has spicy fragrant leaves, the volatile oils reminiscent of nutmeg.

This plant has fragrant, white flowers that grow in long panicles which occur periodically throughout the year. These flowers then develop into attractive, red berries that are edible. Butterflies and other nectar seeking insects are attracted to the flowers.

The name Simpson's Stopper apparently comes from the use of the berries to treat diarrhea and dysentery, but all evidence as to this use by indigenous people is anecdotal and has not been backed up by ethnobotanical studies.

This plant will tolerate wet soils but is also drought tolerant.


Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson's Stopper) tree bark with mottled brown and cream color close up
Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson's Stopper) bark with distinct mottled patches of light brown and cream colors.
Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson's Stopper) plant with green leaves on slender brown stems close up
Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson's Stopper) with small green leaves growing along thin woody brown stems
Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson's Stopper) with dense green leaves on a slender woody plant branch
Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson's Stopper) woody branches with many small oval shaped green leaves growing upward
Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson's Stopper) plant with dense, glossy green leaves on thin woody stems.
Myrcianthes fragrans (Simpson's Stopper) plant showing dense green foliage on thin woody stems.


Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/myrcianthes_fragrans.htm
About Tropical Plant Encyclopedia · Pictogram Guide·