How to grow a myrtle tree: A Comprehensive Guide

Discover the secrets to successfully growing and nurturing a myrtle tree with this detailed guide. Myrtle (Myrtus communis), an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean, has been cultivated in Britain since the 16th century. Known for its fragrant, oval green leaves and delicate white flowers that bloom in late summer, myrtle also produces edible black berries in autumn. These berries are often used to create alcoholic beverages like Mirto and myrtle gin, while the leaves are prized in regions such as Sardinia and Corsica for flavoring meats like pork. Steeped in tradition, myrtle has adorned royal wedding bouquets since the Victorian era, symbolizing love and devotion. While other plants, such as crepe myrtle, honey myrtle, and lemon myrtle, share the name, they are not related to the common myrtle.

Myrtle can be cultivated as a shrub or trained into a small tree, making it a versatile addition to sunny borders. When planted in groups, it can even form an attractive hedge. For smaller spaces, consider the compact variety Myrtus communis ‘Tarentina’, which features smaller leaves and grows to a modest height of 1.5 meters, making it ideal for container gardening in sheltered areas. Once established, myrtle is drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance.

How to Grow myrtle tree

Myrtle thrives in full sun, ideally in a west or south-facing location. It is hardy to temperatures as low as -10°C, provided it is planted in a sheltered spot or against a wall. For optimal growth, plant myrtle in fertile, well-drained soil.

Where to Grow myrtle tree

Choose a sunny flowerbed protected from northerly winds for planting myrtle. While it is hardy, its success depends on being planted in the right location. Myrtle can enhance herbaceous borders or stand alone as a striking feature, whether grown as a standard tree or in a container.

How to Plant myrtle tree

Spring is the best time to plant myrtle, allowing it to establish before winter. Water the roots thoroughly while the plant is still in its pot, ideally a few hours before planting. Dig a hole twice as wide as the rootball, carefully remove the myrtle, and gently tease out any tightly packed roots. Position the plant so the top of the rootball is level with the ground, backfill with the excavated soil, firm it in, and water well.

How to Care for myrtle tree

After planting, water myrtle regularly, particularly during hot summers or if grown in a container. Once established, myrtle requires minimal watering, especially during winter. In regions where temperatures frequently drop below -10°C, container-grown myrtle may need to be brought indoors.

How to Prune myrtle tree

Prune myrtle lightly in spring, once the risk of frost has passed, to maintain its shape. Remove any frost-damaged shoots, cutting back to healthy stems. Avoid pruning in autumn, as this can leave the plant vulnerable to cold and moisture entering the cuts before winter.

Pests and Diseases

Myrtle is generally pest-free and resistant to diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by honey fungus, though this is rare.

Advice on Buying myrtle tree

• For container gardening, consider compact varieties like ‘Tarentina’ or ‘Compacta’, which grow to about half the height of standard myrtle. The variegated variety Myrtus communis ‘Variegata’ is another excellent option.
• Ensure you have a suitable sunny planting site before purchasing, as myrtle will not thrive in cold or shaded areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is special about the myrtle tree?
Myrtle holds deep historical and cultural significance. In Ancient Greece, it was revered as an aphrodisiac and a symbol of love, often associated with the goddess Aphrodite. Myrtle leaves were also used in garlands during the Olympic Games. In Christianity, it symbolizes purity, and in Germany, brides wore myrtle to signify innocence—a tradition adopted by Queen Victoria. Myrtle has also been used medicinally to treat conditions like acne and chest infections.

What do myrtle trees mean in the Bible?
Myrtle is mentioned several times in the Bible, often symbolizing renewal and salvation. In the book of Isaiah, it is written, “Instead of the briar shall come up the myrtle tree,” signifying God’s promise of abundance. Myrtle grew on the hills around Jerusalem and is considered sacred in Judaism, used to decorate booths during the Festival of the Tabernacles. Across Europe and the Middle East, myrtle is associated with romance, devotion, beauty, and love, and is seen as a symbol of paradise in Persian, Jewish, and Arab cultures.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty and historical significance of myrtle in your garden, whether as a standalone feature, a hedge, or a container plant. For more gardening inspiration, explore our guides on Liriodendron tulipifera and 7 flowering plants for shaded areas.