Common Myrtle
myrtus communis
Also known as: ["True Myrtle","Medicinal Myrtle"]
Overview
An evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, valued for its aromatic leaves and white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Myrtus |
| Botanical Name: | Myrtus communis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor garden in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on outdoor/indoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Protect from frost, avoid drafts, maintain moderate temperatures, adjust care for seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring when growth resumes; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and keep warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and shaping cuts to maintain form.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, and disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/damaged wood, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in temperatures below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location, use frost cloth, or provide a heat source in extreme cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in prolonged heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to fall); avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMyrtus communis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for feline consumption, though excessive ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚡ Toxic If:
not typically toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicMyrtus communis is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine consumption, though excessive ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚡ Toxic If:
not typically toxic
Humans
Slightly ToxicMyrtus communis, commonly known as common myrtle, is generally considered non-toxic, but its berries can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities. The plant contains essential oils that may have mild irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Myrtus communis safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Can the leaves of Myrtus communis be used in cooking?
A: Yes, the leaves are commonly used as a culinary herb, similar to bay leaves.
Q: Does Myrtus communis require full sun?
A: It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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