Species myrtle
Violet fruits,  brown stems, green leaves and petiole,

myrtle

Myrtus communis

Myrtle (Myrtus communis) is a small, evergreen shrub native to Eastern Africa, Southern Europe and Western Asia. It can reach 4 to 5 meters in height and compactly forms dense and oval shrubs. Its fragrant foliage and tender white flowers shine like little stars in the summer. The fruit is a glossy berry the size of a grape. Myrtle holds a special place in many cultures, symbolizing fertility, good luck and joy. It's an indispensable herb for many traditional cuisines and medicines. Adorned with its glossy foliage and sweet smelling flowers, and even more delightful fruits, the myrtle a gracious addition to any garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 10

Flowers:

White with yellow-tipped stamens Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

blue,black Fruits Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Myrtle plants need to be watered regularly but not too often because they are vulnerable to root rot. Depending on the climate, the plant needs 1-2 inches of water per week. When watering, water deeply but infrequently. Water in the morning or early afternoon so the leaves can dry before nightfall. If the soil is dry 3 inches below the surface, it is time to give your myrtle plant a good soaking. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the leaves to yellow and the plant to become stagnant.

sunlight

Myrtle (Myrtus communis) prefers full sun to partial shade; however, while it tolerates heat and drought, it should be protected from extended periods of high temperatures. Myrtle requires at least 6 hours of sunlight a day in order to maintain good health and keep its leaves lush and full. If possible, it should be placed in a spot that receives midday shade. Too much intense sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day, can cause the leaves to be scorched and, over time, can weaken the plant.

pruning

Myrtle plants (Myrtus communis) should be pruned after the flowering season, usually between late spring and early summer. Pruning can be fairly aggressive, cutting back branches up to 1-third of their length, without leaving any large and obvious stumps. Always use sharp pruning shears, and take care to remove any dead or diseased branches as soon as they are noticed. It is also important to remove and discard the spent blooms after flowering. Light pruning should also be done throughout the year when necessary to maintain the desired shape.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Myrtus communis typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

Myrtle is typically harvested in the months of July and August.

Hardiness Map