How to Grow Common Myrtle
Wikimedia Commons
Common Myrtle
Myrtus communis
shrubCommon myrtle is an evergreen Mediterranean shrub prized for its small, glossy dark-green leaves and delicate white flowers followed by dark purple-black berries. It has been cultivated for thousands of years and holds cultural significance in Mediterranean and Jewish traditions. The plant is valued for ornamental appeal, culinary uses, and fragrant foliage.
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Example Common Myrtle timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Common Myrtle
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 Common Myrtle
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Common Myrtle dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; can survive zone 8b with winter protection
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Get my Common Myrtle timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung plant is establishing root system with initial leaf growth
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist (not waterlogged) for first season. Avoid fertilizing heavily. Mulch around base to retain moisture.
Vegetative Growth
1-2 yearsShrub develops dense foliage, becoming fuller and bushier with glossy evergreen leaves
Prune to shape and encourage bushiness. Apply balanced fertilizer in spring. Continue regular watering but less frequently than establishment phase.
Flowering
April-August (timing varies by region)Small white flowers appear in leaf axils, very fragrant and attractive to bees
Do not prune during flowering to avoid removing blooms. Ensure adequate sunlight for maximum flower production. Flowers appear spring through summer.
Fruiting & Ripening
3-4 months after floweringFlowers fade and berries develop, gradually ripening from green to dark purple-black over several months
Maintain consistent watering during berry development. Berries are attractive and can be harvested. Birds may consume berries.
Dormancy/Winter
November-FebruaryGrowth slows significantly; plant retains foliage but is relatively inactive
Reduce watering frequency. In zone 8b, provide frost cloth or shelter during freezes. Minimal fertilizing needed.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity with regular misting; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; remove heavily infested leaves
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Prune out infested branches; spray with horticultural oil in dormant season; apply neem oil during growing season
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Isolate infested plant; remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab; spray with insecticidal soap
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators
Uses
Flavoring & Seasoning
CulinaryMyrtle leaves have a subtle eucalyptus-like flavor with citrus notes and are used to flavor meat dishes, fish, and game in Mediterranean cuisine. The berries can be dried and used as a peppery spice. [source]
Traditional Herbal Medicine
MedicinalMyrtle has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years to treat respiratory conditions, digestive issues, and inflammation. Modern herbalism employs myrtle leaf tea for its astringent and antimicrobial properties. [source]
Fragrance & Essential Oil
HouseholdMyrtle leaves and flowers are highly fragrant and can be dried for potpourri or used to produce essential oil. The scent is fresh, slightly floral, and herbaceous. [source]
Garden & Container Specimen
OrnamentalWith its compact growth, evergreen foliage, delicate flowers, and colorful berries, myrtle is excellent for ornamental gardens, hedging, topiaries, and container cultivation. Popular in Mediterranean, formal, and contemporary garden designs. [source]
Symbolic & Ceremonial Significance
CulturalMyrtle holds deep cultural importance in Mediterranean and Jewish traditions, often used in wedding ceremonies, religious observances, and as a symbol of love and purity. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest leaves year-round for culinary use by pinching off young, tender growth. Pick flowers when fully open in late spring/early summer. Berries ripen in late summer to fall (August-November); pick when fully dark purple-black and slightly soft to touch.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Myrtle has been cultivated for over 3,500 years and is mentioned in ancient texts from Egypt, Greece, and Rome, making it one of humanity's oldest cultivated plants.
- 🌱 In Jewish tradition, myrtle branches are one of the Four Species (Arba'ah Minim) used during the Sukkot festival, representing joy and celebration.
- 🌱 The ancient Romans associated myrtle with Venus, the goddess of love, and it became a symbol of conjugal love, remaining popular in bridal bouquets to this day.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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