Myrtus communis

The True Myrtle or Common Myrtle, also known as Poor Man’s Bay, is an aromatic, evergreen shrub or small tree native to Mediterranean basin. A prized garden plant in its native land, Myrtle is used for its leaves and fruit as a spice and the essential oil is coveted by soapmakers and perfumers. In Sardinia and Corsica, Myrtle berries are used to create the traditional liqueur Mirto which is considered unique to these islands.

Evergreen, lanceolate foliage is a deep green, smothered with white, sweetly scented, fluffy flowers in midsummer. Flowers are followed by small, dark purple berries that have a distinctive flavor between blueberry and bay laurel. Fruit ripens in late fall, so Myrtle makes a great addition to the edible landscape to help provide food throughout the year. There are several cultivars of Myrtle ranging from dwarf to variegated selections, but our offering is the standard tried and true, full sized variety.

Cold hardy to zone 8a and above, or to 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

Our 1 gallon potted plants available now are the variety ‘Compacta’