Morella faya
Care, watering, light and tips for Morella faya on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Myricaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Morella faya
Morella faya, commonly known as Faya, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Canary Islands and Madeira, valued for its dense foliage and its role in the laurisilva forest. Its leaves are glossy and its small reddish fruits are attractive to wildlife, adding a natural and robust touch to Atlantic-inspired gardens or coastal areas. It is ideal for hedges, as a standalone specimen, or for restoring degraded areas.
Native range
Macaronesia (Canary Islands, Madeira, Azores)
Care tips
Faya prefers full sun to partial shade exposure and is quite drought-tolerant once established, though regular watering during dry spells promotes vigorous growth. It adapts to a wide range of soils, as long as they are well-draining, even tolerating poor and slightly acidic conditions. Avoid waterlogging, as its roots are sensitive to excessive moisture. It is resistant to sea spray and wind.
How to save a dying Morella faya
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or reddish leaves, premature dropping. Slow or no growth. Dry, brittle branches.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Ensure good ventilation and moderate sun. Protect from strong winds and frost.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging, very clayey or nutrient-poor soil. Lack of protection in its early years.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not rotted and main trunk is undamaged. Act quickly.