Myrtus communis

An award-winning specimen, Common myrtle is an evergreen shrub in the Myrtacae (myrtle) family. Ancient civilizations used the leaves for medicinal and culinary purposes.  The showy white blooms were a symbol of love.  This symbol continued as the Common myrtle was introduced in England during the 16th century and can still be found in British wedding bouquets.  

Although it can grow over time to reach heights and widths of up to 12', the typical range will be 5-6' tall and wide.   It can be grown as both a large shrub or a small tree.  Some varieties are grown as a bonsai.

For the best performance, provide a loamy compost.  It will adapt to both clay and sandy soils.

Most parts of the plant have culinary uses.  The berries that follow the flowers are edible.  Fruits, flowers and leaves when dried are used as a food flavoring.  The leaves are also used as a bay leaf substitute.  Some even use the wood to flavor meats.  When added to a charcoal grill, the wood will add a mild flavor to your BBQ.

Oils obtained from the bark, flowers and leaves are used in the production of skin care products.

Very resistant to honey fungus.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Insure proper drainage to prevent root rot.  Scale, spider mites and thrips are insects that can damage this plant during hot, dry weather.

When grown indoors, scale, mealybug or whitefly can occur when the conditions include a warm room with low light and moisture.

Young spring growth can be damaged by a late frost.