How to Grow Myrtle Family Plants
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Myrtle Family Plants
Myrtaceae
treeMyrtaceae is a large family of flowering plants comprising over 5,500 species, including eucalyptus, guava, feijoa, and myrtle. Members are predominantly evergreen trees and shrubs native to tropical and subtropical regions, particularly Australia and South America. The family is valued for ornamental foliage, edible fruits, and aromatic essential oils.
When should you plant Myrtle Family Plants in your zone?
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Example Myrtle Family Plants timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Myrtle Family Plants
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Myrtle Family Plants
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-12; many species tolerate zone 8 with protection
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Seed Germination & Seedling
3-6 weeksSeeds are tiny and require light exposure. Seedlings develop first true leaves after 2-4 weeks.
Use seed-starting mix, keep moist but not waterlogged, provide bright indirect light, maintain 65-75°F. Do not bury seeds—press lightly into soil surface.
Vegetative Growth
3-12 monthsYoung plants develop foliage and establish root systems. Leaves are typically small, glossy, and aromatic when crushed.
Gradually increase light exposure, fertilize monthly with balanced NPK (1:1:1), prune to encourage bushy growth, maintain consistent moisture during this phase.
Establishment
6-12 monthsPlant transitions from nursery conditions to landscape. Root system expands significantly and growth accelerates.
Water deeply 2-3 times weekly for first month, then reduce frequency. Mulch around base (2-3 inches, keeping away from trunk). Minimal fertilizer needed.
Flowering & Fruiting
4-8 months depending on speciesMyrtaceae members produce characteristic flowers (usually with prominent stamens) followed by fleshy or dry fruits containing seeds.
Provide full sun for blooms, reduce nitrogen fertilizer (excess promotes foliage over flowers), allow natural pollinator access. Some species need cross-pollination.
Maturity & Maintenance
OngoingEstablished plants require minimal care. Growth slows, but productivity and ornamental value peak.
Water only during drought, prune for shape/health in late winter, mulch to retain moisture, no routine fertilization needed, harvest fruits when ripe.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray neem oil or horticultural oil in early morning; introduce natural predators (ladybugs, lacewings); remove heavily infested branches.
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Increase humidity with misting, spray insecticidal soap, use sulfur dust (avoid near flowers), introduce predatory mites.
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Prune infested branches, spray horticultural oil during dormant season, use neem oil on active infestations, hand-remove if few.
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Hand-pick visible beetles, use row covers on young plants, spray spinosad or neem oil, encourage beneficial insects.
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Improve air circulation with pruning, remove affected leaves, spray sulfur or fungicidal oils, avoid overhead watering, reduce humidity in enclosed spaces.
Uses
Edible Fruits & Honey Production
CulinaryMany Myrtaceae species produce edible fruits high in vitamin C and fiber. Guava, feijoa, and myrtle berries are eaten fresh or made into jams. Eucalyptus flowers attract bees for specialty honey production. [source]
Essential Oils & Herbal Remedies
MedicinalEucalyptus oil is used for respiratory health and topical pain relief. Myrtle has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Guava leaves are brewed as tea for digestive support. [source]
Fragrance & Aromatherapy
HouseholdDried leaves and essential oils are used in potpourri, diffusers, and natural cleaners. The aromatic foliage provides pleasant scents when brushed or crushed. [source]
Landscape & Container Plants
OrnamentalAttractive evergreen foliage, interesting bark textures, and showy flowers make Myrtaceae valuable for gardens. Dwarf cultivars work well in containers. [source]
Pollinator & Bird Support
WildlifeFlowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Fruits provide food for native birds and wildlife. Dense foliage offers shelter and nesting sites. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Fruiting species (guava, feijoa, eucalyptus honey) fruit when fully mature (2-5 years). Harvest fruits when ripe (color change, slight softness), typically in fall/early winter. Pick in morning after dew dries. For essential oils, harvest leaves in afternoon when oil content peaks; dry in shade. Prune lightly year-round; major pruning in late winter before growth surge.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Myrtaceae is the source of eucalyptus oil, which contains eucalyptol—a compound used in over-the-counter cough drops and muscle rubs for its cooling and antimicrobial properties.
- 🌱 The myrtle plant was sacred to the ancient Greeks and Romans, associated with Aphrodite/Venus and symbolizing love and immortality; it was traditionally included in wedding bouquets.
- 🌱 Some eucalyptus species, native to Australia, are among the fastest-growing trees on Earth, capable of growing over 6 feet per year, and are now cultivated globally for timber, pulp, and biofuel production.
Gardening Terms
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