Family: Myrtaceae
Common Name: Scent Myrtle

Named after Charles Darwin's grandfather, this genus comprises 60 species of flowering shrubs, mostly from Western Australia. They are char­acterized by stiff foliage and unique blooms formed of clusters of tiny, mostly reddish, per-fumed flowers, frequently enclosed by large and colourful, bell-shaped bracts. These beautiful shrubs flower over a long period and are also useful for attracting birds to the garden.

Species

Few if any of these species are available outside their native Australia.

D. citriodora, lemon-scented myrtle, from Western Australia, grows to 1 m (3 ft) and has reddish flowers and grayish green foliage.

D. fascicularis, a native of New South Wales, has dense, softer foliage than many other species and grows to 1 m (3 ft). Clusters of red and green button-like flowers bloom in spring.

D. leiostyla, to 1 m (3 ft), has deep pink to scarlet bells in spring.

D. macrostegia, Mondurup bell, to 2 m (6 ft), has a weeping habit, narrow foliage, and pro­duces yellow and red bell-shaped flowers.

D. meeboldii, Cranbrook bell, from Western Australia, has densely crowded leaves and bells with greenish white petals and red bracts.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, grow in an airy, cool greenhouse or conservatory, in pots of soilless potting compost, with maximum light but shade from direct sun. In the garden, grow in a sunny, sheltered spot with sandy, well-drained soil. Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings under glass in summer, or by layering in spring.

Climate

Needs to be frost-free; at least zone 9.