Icon - Arrow LeftAn icon we use to indicate a rightwards action. Icon - Arrow RightAn icon we use to indicate a leftwards action. Icon - External LinkAn icon we use to indicate a button link is external. Icon - MessageThe icon we use to represent an email action. Icon - Down ChevronUsed to indicate a dropdown. Icon - CloseUsed to indicate a close action. Icon - Dropdown ArrowUsed to indicate a dropdown. Icon - Location PinUsed to showcase a location on a map. Icon - Zoom OutUsed to indicate a zoom out action on a map. Icon - Zoom InUsed to indicate a zoom in action on a map. Icon - SearchUsed to indicate a search action. Icon - EmailUsed to indicate an emai action. Icon - FacebookFacebooks brand mark for use in social sharing icons. flipboard Icon - InstagramInstagrams brand mark for use in social sharing icons. Icon - PinterestPinterests brand mark for use in social sharing icons. Icon - TwitterTwitters brand mark for use in social sharing icons. Icon - Check MarkA check mark for checkbox buttons.
Search

Myrtle Myrtus Communis

Growing Myrtle: Tips at a Glance

The evergreen shrub myrtle has glossy green leaves and a small white puff of a flower. An unassuming backdrop in a garden, likes warm climates that remind it of its Mediterranean origins.

  • Type Flowering shrub
  • Lifespan Long-lived perennial
  • USDA Zones 8-11
  • Light Full to partial sun
  • Water Well-drained soil
  • Location Sheltered spot
  • Design Tip Royal bridal bouquets
  • Companions Tulips, muscari
  • Peak Season Summer flowers

Myrtle: A Field Guide

The name “common myrtle” does not accurately convey the power of this unassuming, evergreen shrub that has fizzy white blooms in summer. A sprig of Myrtus communis traditionally commands center stage at British royal weddings, where it has been carried in bridal bouquets since Victoria sat on the throne.

In the garden, where myrtle at maturity may reach heights of 16 feet (and look more like a small tree than a shrub), its glossy green leaves create a pleasing foil to other shrubs and flowering plants. A Mediterranean transplant that likes warm weather (it is perennial in USDA growing zones 8 to 11), myrtle will perform best in a sheltered, warm spot where it is protected from wind. In a smaller garden, consider the dwarf variety Myrtus communis ‘Compacta’, a slow-growing shrub which eventually will reach a height of from six to 8 feet.

(Visited 813 times, 1 visits today)

Planting, Care & Design of Myrtle

More About Myrtle

v5.0