How to Grow Myrtle Flore Pleno

Myrtle Flore Pleno

Myrtus communis 'Flore Pleno'

shrub

Myrtle Flore Pleno is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its distinctive double flowers that bloom in summer. Unlike the single-flowered species, this cultivar produces showy, fully double white blossoms with numerous petals, creating a more ornamental appearance. It maintains the classic myrtle characteristics: aromatic, glossy foliage and edible berries, while offering enhanced decorative value.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade in hot climates

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Water: Moderate watering; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply during establishment and dry spells. Drought-tolerant once established.

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Spacing: 24 inches

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Days to maturity: 2-3 years to reach mature ornamental size

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Planting depth: Same depth as root ball when transplanting; seeds sown at 1/4 inch depth

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil

pH: 6.0-7.0

Amendments:

Compost or aged bark for organic matter Perlite or coarse sand for drainage Limestone if soil is acidic

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 8b-10, with protection in zone 8b

8b 9a 9b 10a 10b 11

Growth Stages

Establishment

3-6 months

Young transplants developing root systems and initial foliage growth

Water regularly to keep soil moist; provide bright light but avoid harsh afternoon sun during first season; apply mulch around base to retain moisture

Vegetative Growth

6-12 months

Plant puts on bushy growth with glossy, small oval leaves; no flowers yet

Prune lightly to encourage branching and compact form; continue regular watering; fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season

Flowering

4-8 weeks, typically June-August in Northern Hemisphere

Double white flowers appear along branch tips, creating a fragrant, ornamental display

Reduce nitrogen to encourage flowering; maintain consistent moisture; deadhead spent flowers to promote prolonged blooming; flower buds form on previous year's wood so avoid heavy pruning

Fruiting

8-12 weeks after flowering

Small, dark purple-black berries develop where flowers were; berries mature and darken

Allow berries to ripen fully on plant; maintain regular watering; berries are ornamental and edible; leave some for wildlife or harvest for culinary use

Dormancy

3-4 months in cooler zones

Winter growth slows; foliage remains evergreen but plant enters semi-dormant state

Reduce watering but don't allow soil to dry completely; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 50°F; no fertilizer needed; prune if desired in late winter

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Lavender Rosemary Santolina Boxwood Cistus Germander Teucrium

Avoid planting near:

Black walnut trees (Juglans nigra) Plants requiring consistently moist, acidic soil

Common Pests

Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if infestation is severe; maintain adequate humidity
Remove by hand or with alcohol-soaked cotton swab; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; ensure good air circulation
Prune affected branches; apply horticultural oil in early spring; use neem oil for active infestations
Improve air circulation; avoid wetting foliage; apply sulfur dust or fungicide if severe; remove affected leaves

Uses

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Berries and Leaf Seasoning

Culinary

Myrtle berries have a juniper-like flavor and are used in Mediterranean cuisine as a spice or liqueur. The aromatic leaves can be used as a culinary herb to flavor meats, fish, and preserves. [source]

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Traditional Herbal Remedy

Medicinal

Historically used in traditional medicine for respiratory support and digestive health. Modern herbal practice employs myrtle extracts and tea for antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. [source]

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Decorative Double Flowers

Ornamental

The fully double white flowers are more ornamental than the species form, making this cultivar exceptional for decorative purposes. The compact growth habit and evergreen foliage provide year-round structure in gardens. [source]

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Fragrant Foliage and Cut Flowers

Household

The aromatic leaves and fragrant double flowers can be used in cut flower arrangements, dried for potpourri, or fresh for indoor fragrance. Dried leaves retain their pleasant scent for extended periods. [source]

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Pollinator and Bird Support

Wildlife

Double flowers attract bees and other pollinators during blooming season. The berries provide food for birds and wildlife during fruiting season. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Berries are ready to harvest when they turn dark purple-black, typically 2-3 months after flowering. Pick by hand or allow to fall naturally. Use fresh immediately or dry for later use. For culinary applications, harvest leaves any time during growing season by pinching off terminal shoots; leaves are most aromatic in morning. Prune in late winter or after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Fun Facts

🌱 Myrtle has been cultivated for over 3,500 years and holds significance in Mediterranean, Jewish, and Christian traditions as a symbol of love, fertility, and peace. The 'Flore Pleno' cultivar is a treasured heirloom variety.
🌱 The double flowers of this cultivar are sterile or produce very few seeds, making it a horticultural curiosity that maintains its ornamental form reliably.
🌱 Myrtle essential oil has been used since ancient times in perfumery and cosmetics, and the plant's name likely derives from the Arabic word 'murrat,' reflecting its importance in Middle Eastern cultures.

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