How to Grow Salt Myrtle
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Salt Myrtle
Austromyrtus (Lophomyrtus) obcordata
shrubSalt myrtle is a compact, evergreen shrub native to New Zealand with small, glossy, dark green leaves and tiny fragrant white or pale pink flowers followed by decorative red berries. It is highly salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal gardens, making it an excellent choice for seaside landscapes. The plant is also valued for its attractive foliage and ornamental appeal in mixed borders and containers.
When should you plant Salt Myrtle in your zone?
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Example Salt Myrtle timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Salt 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 Salt Myrtle
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 9-10; frost-tender in colder regions, best in warm temperate to subtropical climates
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Get my Salt Myrtle timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-4 weeksYoung transplants settling into garden or container; small, delicate new growth emerging
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist (not waterlogged). Protect from strong winds and harsh sun initially. Mulch lightly around base.
Vegetative Growth
4-8 months to 1 yearPlant develops bushy form with increasing foliage; no flowers yet. Leaves remain glossy and vibrant green.
Continue regular watering. Light pruning to encourage branching and dense form. Fertilize monthly with balanced slow-release fertilizer.
Flowering
6-8 weeks (spring-early summer)Small, fragrant white to pale pink flowers appear along stems and branch tips; typically appears in spring to early summer
Maintain consistent moisture. Reduce fertilizer nitrogen to encourage blooming. Deadhead spent flowers if desired to promote further flowering.
Fruiting and Berry Development
Summer through winter (4-6 months)Flowers fade and transition into clusters of small, ornamental red berries that persist on the plant for several months
Minimal intervention needed. Berries attract birds; leave them for wildlife if desired. Continue moderate watering.
Dormancy/Mature
Winter months (2-3 months)Plant maintains evergreen foliage year-round; growth slows in winter. Berries may still be present.
Minimal watering in winter. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove any damaged growth. No fertilizer needed in winter.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap in severe infestations; ensure good air circulation
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Remove by hand or prune affected stems; apply horticultural oil or neem oil in winter when plant is semi-dormant
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; improve air circulation
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap if widespread
Uses
Coastal Landscape Planting
OrnamentalSalt myrtle's exceptional salt tolerance makes it ideal for seaside gardens, beachfront properties, and areas with saline-laden winds. Its compact growth and evergreen foliage provide year-round structure and visual interest. [source]
Container and Potted Display
OrnamentalThe shrub's compact form and beautiful foliage make it perfect for containers on patios, balconies, and decks. It grows well in pots and requires minimal maintenance, making it accessible to gardeners with limited space. [source]
Bird and Pollinator Habitat
WildlifeThe fragrant flowers attract bees and other pollinators, while the red berries provide food for birds during winter months when other food sources are scarce. It supports local ecosystems in coastal regions. [source]
Erosion Control and Windbreak
HouseholdSalt myrtle's salt and wind tolerance, combined with its sturdy growth habit, make it useful for stabilizing sandy soils in coastal areas and providing shelter from salt spray and strong winds. [source]
Floral Arrangements and Greenery
CraftThe glossy, attractive foliage and delicate flowers work well in small-scale floral arrangements, particularly for coastal or beach-themed designs. The persistent berries also add color to winter arrangements. [source]
Harvest Tips
Salt myrtle is grown ornamentally rather than for harvest. Berries can be left on the plant to feed birds and wildlife, or pruned off if a specific form is desired. Flowering stems can be cut for small floral arrangements; cut in the morning when flowers are freshly open.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Salt myrtle is native to coastal regions of New Zealand and has evolved remarkable mechanisms to exclude excess salt from its leaves, allowing it to thrive where many plants fail.
- 🌱 The common name 'salt myrtle' reflects both its habitat preference and its myrtle-like appearance; the genus name Austromyrtus literally means 'southern myrtle.'
- 🌱 The tiny berries are a favorite food source for native New Zealand birds and other wildlife; leaving them on the plant transforms it into a valuable food resource during winter months.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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