You have to admire the characters in the Swiss Family Robinson who, after being shipwrecked, not only survived but seemed to carve out a pretty decent living, complete with a killer treehouse that kids and adults alike envy.
With a botanical name that’s derived from the Greek word myrike, meaning fragrance, this East Coast native’s essential oils have long been used in soaps and other home goods, and the waxy coating from its berries is still used to make candles.
Photograph by Justine Hand.
For more, see The Romance of the Homemade Candle.
Photograph by Marie Viljoen.
For more, see True Colors: 9 Best Shrubs for Fall Foliage.
For more, see Garden Visit: A Design Couple’s Shelter Island Retreat.
Photograph by Gentl & Hyers.
Cheat Sheet
If you’re thinking of making bayberry candles from scratch, Justine writes, “About two pounds into it, I started to realized why colonial women quickly abandoned this practice. For Justine’s step-by-step DIY on how to make bayberry candles, see The Romance of the Homemade Candle.