Common Myrtle
Myrtus communis
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Description
Common Myrtle is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, renowned for its aromatic leaves and white or pink flowers. It typically grows to a height of 2-3 meters and plays a vital role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture by attracting beneficial insects and providing habitat for wildlife. In a food forest, it serves as a shrub layer, offering windbreak and erosion control. Historically, it has been used in various Mediterranean cultures for culinary and medicinal purposes. Guild companions include rosemary, lavender, and sage, which thrive in similar conditions and enhance biodiversity.
Growing Details
Common Myrtle thrives in well-drained, sandy to loamy soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. Mulching with organic matter helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like rosemary and lavender can enhance growth and pest resistance. Avoid overwatering, especially in clay soils. Harvest berries when fully ripe in late summer. Store dried leaves in airtight containers for culinary use.
Edible Parts
Leaves
Fruit
Oil
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Scented Plant
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Oil
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Myrtus communis</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Mediterranean region
applicable geo region: Southern Europe, North Africa, and Western As
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 90 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(3/5)
edible uses: The berries of Common Myrtle can be eaten raw or cooked, often used to flavor liqueurs such as the traditional Italian 'Mirto'. The leaves, used as a spice similar to bay leaves, impart a unique flavor to meats and stews. The berries are typically harvested in late summer to early autumn.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Common Myrtle has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used to treat respiratory issues, skin conditions, and digestive problems. The leaves and berries can be made into teas or tinctures. Caution is advised as excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
health concerns: Excessive consumption of berries or leaves may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
other uses: The leaves and berries can be used to produce essential oils, which are used in perfumery and aromatherapy. The dense foliage makes it suitable for hedging and windbreaks.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Myrtus communis
common names: Myrtle; True Myrtle; Greek Myrtle
family: Myrtaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Myrtus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 1.5 m
spacing: 1.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Medium
hardness:
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(8/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Slow
max height: 3.0 m
max width: 2.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Common Myrtle thrives in well-drained, sandy to loamy soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. Mulching with organic matter helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like rosemary and lavender can enhance growth and pest resistance. Avoid overwatering, especially in clay soils. Harvest berries when fully ripe in late summer. Store dried leaves in airtight containers for culinary use.
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids and scale insects. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Neem oil and insecticidal soap can be used for scale insects. Planting garlic and chives nearby can help repel pests naturally.
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