Family: Myrtaceae
Common Name: Myrtle

This genus comprises only two species of densely foliaged, evergreen shrubs, grown for their shiny foliage and pretty, starry, white flowers. The small leaves have a delightful fragrance when crushed. These plants respond well to clipping, so make good hedging plants.

Species

M. communis, common myrtle, from the Mediterranean, is an erect shrub, growing to around 3 m (10 ft). It has pointed, aromatic leaves and fragrant, white flowers from midsummer to early autumn, which are followed by black, edible berries. This species has been used ornamentally and ritually since ancient times. It is the classic myrtle of Ancient Greece, evident in the myrtle wreaths in ancient art and jewellery. It had many medicinal uses. The oil was extracted for cosmetics and perfume and the dried berries were used as spice Cultivar 'Variegata' has green leaves with white margins.

Cultivation

Myrtle is best grown in full sun but it can he grown in partial shade. It will grow in almost any kind of well-drained soil but does best in humus-enriched soils. It needs regular watering to establish but established plants tolerate dry conditions well. Prune plants after flowering to maintain a compact, bushy shape. If used for hedging, they may need shearing two or three times during the growing season. Myrtle is easily propagated from firm tip cuttings, taken from late spring through to late summer but can also be grown from seed.

Climate

Zone 8.