Overview
Myrtus communis is a bushy, compact evergreen shrub in the genus Myrtus, part of the Myrtaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 4.5 m tall. Myrtus communis grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental shrub, hedging and container planting. It is native to Philippines.
About
Myrtus communis, the common myrtle or true myrtle, is an Old World species of flowering plant in the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. It forms an evergreen shrub.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Myrtus communis
About the genus
Myrtus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Myrtaceae. It was first described by Swedish botanist Linnaeus in 1753.
Wikipedia contributors, "Myrtus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Myrtus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Myrtus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Myrtus communis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- evergreen shrub
- Habit
- Bushy, compact
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 4.5 m
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental shrub, hedging, container planting
- Native to
- Philippines
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Myrtus communis
- Propagation
- Semi-ripe cuttings, layering
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Myrtus communis?
Myrtus communis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Myrtus communis need?
Myrtus communis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How big does Myrtus communis grow?
Myrtus communis reaches a height of 4.5 m.
Is Myrtus communis hardy in the UK?
Myrtus communis has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Myrtus communis?
Semi-ripe cuttings, layering.
