November's Flower of the Month

Myrtus communis ‘Compacta’

Dwarf Greek Myrtle

 Dwarf Greek myrtle is an evergreen shrub with dark green, fragrant leaves. Creamy white flowers about one-half inch across bloom in the spring. Flowers are followed by berries that are purplish-black at maturity and are similar in size and shape to blueberries. 

Right Place  Greek myrtle grows best in full sun to light shade. It is heat, drought, and salt tolerant. Place in an area where the foliage remains as dry as possible. Soil must be well-drained, or the plants will be susceptible to root rot. 

Continued Care  Trim Greek myrtle as desired to maintain size and shape. Watch for scale insects and spider mites. Treat if necessary.

Propagation  Tip cuttings root well when placed in a damp planting medium. Seeds can also be planted. 

Kinds  Some species of Greek myrtle can become a small tree, but plants are most often pruned to maintain a height of five to six feet. ‘Microphylla’, or narrow-leaf myrtle is slow-growing, and matures a little larger than ‘Compacta’. Myrtus communis ‘Boetica’, or twisted myrtle has an interesting trunk and branching pattern and can grow into a 9-12 foot tree. 

Other Uses  Dwarf Green myrtle is a favorite plant in coastal landscapes, and it is frequently a bonsai or topiary subject. Since Victorian times, it has been a favorite plant for knot gardens. It grows well in patio planters and pots and is sometimes used as a small hedge.

Flavor is somewhat like a mixture of bay leaf and rosemary. Sprigs tossed on the grill give foods an herby, smoky flavor. Use Greek myrtle to flavor chicken, fish, or pork. Fresh tender leaves are excellent with squash and zucchini, and herbal vinegars infused with the leaves are flavorful. The small berries that follow the flowers can be used like juniper berries to flavor roast meats or marinades. Medicinally, parts of the plant have been used to treat ulcers, asthma, bronchitis, acne, hemorrhoids, oily skin, and other ailments.

At a Glance

Say: MER-tis KOM-yoo-nis

Family: Myrtaceae (Myrtle family)

Other names: Sweet myrtle, bride’s myrtle

Origin: Western Asia and Afghanistan

Zones: 8-10

Light: Sun to part sun

Water use zone: Low

Size: 2 feet

Soil: Well-drained, sandy

Salt tolerance: High