Simpson's Stopper
Myrcianthes fragrans
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
240 inches
Width
180 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Long-lived shrub/tree
Native To
Florida, Caribbean
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Myrcianthes fragrans is a versatile evergreen native to South Florida, the Caribbean, and parts of Central/South America. It can be grown as a dense multi-stemmed shrub or trained into a small tree, valued for its attractive peeling bark, fragrant flowers, and colorful berries. Its common name, 'stopper,' refers to the historical use of its fruit as a remedy for diarrhea. It is an outstanding landscape plant for warm climates due to its high tolerance for various soils, salt, and drought, plus its multi-season appeal.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a site in full sun or light shade.
- Plant in any well-drained soil; it is very adaptable.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
- Set the plant at the same depth it was in the pot.
- Water regularly for the first few months to establish.
- Once established, it is very drought tolerant.
Pro Tip
Prune lightly to shape; avoid heavy shearing which removes the attractive flowers and berries that wildlife depend on.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly until established.
- Prune after flowering to maintain desired shape.
- Appreciate its slow to moderate growth rate.
- Use it as a hedge, screen, or small specimen tree.
Don't
- Do not overwater once established.
- Avoid planting in poorly drained, soggy locations.
- Do not shear into a formal box, which ruins its natural beauty.
- Avoid heavy fertilization, which is generally unnecessary.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Simpson's Stopper questions
What zones can Simpson's Stopper grow in?
Simpson's Stopper is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Simpson's Stopper deer resistant?
Yes — Simpson's Stopper is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Simpson's Stopper bloom?
Simpson's Stopper typically blooms in late spring through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Simpson's Stopper need full sun?
Simpson's Stopper does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Simpson's Stopper drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Simpson's Stopper handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
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Grow Simpson's Stopper with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
