Shrub
Simpson's Stopper
Myrcianthes fragrans
Varieties We Carry
RedMyrcianthes fragransYellowMyrcianthes fragransStandardMyrcianthes fragrans
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$6.95
3 galFrom$14.95
7 galFrom$44.95
15 galFrom$125.00
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun, Part Shade
WaterLow to Moderate
Mature size12-20 feet × 8-12 feet
About Simpson's Stopper
Simpson's stopper (Myrcianthes fragrans) is a Florida native evergreen shrub or small tree rated for zones 9b–11, making it an excellent choice for NE Florida landscapes. It features aromatic glossy leaves, exfoliating cinnamon bark, fragrant white spring flowers, and orange-red berries that attract birds and wildlife. Drought and salt tolerant once established, it serves well as a specimen, hedge, or screening plant. Starting at $6.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Alkaline, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Simpson's stopper thrives in full sun to part shade; full sun produces denser foliage ideal for hedges and screening, while shade displays the attractive exfoliating cinnamon bark. An excellent choice for NE Florida coastal and inland landscapes.
Water
Once established, Simpson's stopper is drought and salt tolerant and requires little supplemental irrigation in NE Florida. Water regularly during the first year to establish a deep root system; mature plants can thrive on rainfall alone.
Soil & Fertilizer
Adaptable to sandy, loamy, and alkaline coastal soils; amend with compost at planting if soil is extremely infertile. Apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer once or twice a year in spring and summer; avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce fruit production.
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Common questions
Is Simpson's Stopper a good plant for St. Augustine?
Simpson's Stopper is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with high salt tolerance, reaching 12-20 feet × 8-12 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.