Common Myrtle

(Myrtus communis)

Common Myrtle (Myrtus communis)

Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz

CC BY-SA 4.0

Image By: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz

Recorded By:

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Myrtus communis, commonly known as Common Myrtle or True Myrtle, is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, including southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia, and parts of the Indian subcontinent. It is also found in the Indian Subcontinent. Typically growing to 5 meters (16 ft) tall, Myrtus communis has a dense, bushy habit with glossy, aromatic, dark green leaves. The flowers, which appear in summer, are white or sometimes pink-tinged, consisting of five petals surrounded by prominent stamens, creating a delicate, star-like effect. The flowers are moderately showy and are followed by edible blue-black berries, which are often used in cooking and to flavor beverages.

Common Myrtle is valued for its fragrant foliage and flowers, as well as its ornamental berries. It is used in gardens for hedging, topiary, or as a specimen plant. It has historical significance and is still included in wedding bouquets as a symbol of love. This plant prefers a warm, sheltered position and thrives in full sun to part shade. It is drought-tolerant once established, requiring low amounts of water, and grows best in well-drained soils. Myrtus communis can suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is generally pest-free but can be affected by myrtle rust, especially in humid conditions. Pruning is recommended to maintain its shape and promote denser growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Shrubs
Height: 8-12 feet
Width: 8-12 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: White
Flowering Season: Summer
Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Medium
Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Mediterranean region, including southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia, and Macaronesia

Other Names

Common Names: True Myrtle

Scientific Names: , Myrtus communis, Myrtus boetica, Myrtus communis var. microphylla, Myrtus communis var. leucocarpa, Myrtus communis var. communis, Myrtus communis var. acuminata, Myrtus buxifolia, Myrtus communis var. augustinii, Myrtus communis var. baui

GBIF Accepted Name: Myrtus communis L.