How to grow a myrtle tree
Find out how to grow and care for myrtle, in our guide.
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Myrtle (Myrtus communis) is an evergreen shrub that comes from the Mediterranean and has been grown in Britain since the 16th century. Its oval green leaves are scented, as are the small, fluffy white flowers which appear in late summer. These are held singly on the plant and are followed by black berries in autumn. The berries are edible and used to make alcoholic drinks such as Mirto and myrtle gin, while the leaves are used in countries like Sardinia and Corsica to flavour meat, such as pork. Myrtle has been used in the wedding bouquets of Royal brides since Victorian times and is traditionally known as a symbol of love. Although the common name myrtle is given to trees of other species such as crepe myrtle tree, honey myrtle tree and lemon myrtle tree, they are not related to common myrtle.
Myrtle can be grown as a shrub or as a standard small tree in a sunny border. If several plants are grown together, myrtle can also be used a hedge. For those with less space, try the compact Myrtus communis 'Tarentina', which has smaller leaves and reaches a height of just 1.5m. This makes it an excellent choice for a container in a sheltered spot. Once established, myrtle is drought tolerant, making it a low-maintenance plant for a border.
How to grow myrtle
Grow myrtle in full sun in a west or south-facing position. It is hardy down to -10ºC if grown in a sheltered spot, or against a wall. It grows best in fertile, well-drained soil.
Where to grow myrtle
Grow myrtle in a sunny flowerbed, where it will be sheltered from northerly winds – it's hardy but only if grown in the right location. It can be grown as part of an herbaceous border but also makes an attractive plant on its own, either grown as a standard or as part of a container display.
How to plant myrtle
Plant myrtle in spring to give it time to establish before winter. Water the roots thoroughly while still in its pot, ideally a couple of hours before planting. Dig a hole twice as wide as the rootball and remove the myrtle carefully. Tease out the roots if they are tightly packed. Plant it so the top of the rootball is level with the ground, and backfill with the soil that you dug out. Firm in your plant well and water.
How to care for myrtle
Water myrtle regularly after planting, especially during hot summers or if grown in a container. It doesn't need regular watering during the winter or once established. If grown in a container, it may need to be brought indoors in regions where temperatures regularly drop below -10ºC.
How to prune myrtle
In spring, , once the danger of frosts is over, prune myrtle lightly to reshape. Cut out any shoots that have been damaged by frost, pruning back to healthy stems. Avoid pruning in autumn, as this could lead to cold or wet getting into the pruning cuts before winter.
Pests and diseases
Myrtle tends to be pest free and isn't susceptible to diseases. It can sometimes be affected by honey fungus but this isn't common.
Advice on buying myrtle
- For containers, try the variety 'Tarentina' or 'Compacta', which grow to around half the height. There is also a variegated variety, Myrtus communis 'Variegata'
- Check you have a suitable planting site in a sunny spot before buying as myrtle won't thrive in cold areas
Where to buy myrtle
Frequently asked questions
What is special about the myrtle tree?
Myrtle has been significant throughout history. For the Ancient Greeks, myrtle was considered an aphrodisiac and a symbol of love. The Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite, is often pictured wearing a crown of myrtle leaves. Myrtle leaves were also used by the Ancient Greeks in garlands at the Olympic games. In Christianity, however, myrtle became a symbol of purity. In Germany myrtle was worn by the bride to show her innocence, a tradition that Queen Victoria adopted. Her eldest daughter wore myrtle at her wedding in 1858, and Queen Victoria had myrtle bushes planted at Osbourne House on the Isle of Wight. There is still myrtle growing there today. As well its mythological and historical importance, myrtle has also been used in medicine, as a remedy for ailments such as acne and chest infections.
What do myrtle trees mean in the Bible?
There are several references to myrtle in the Bible. In many interpretations, it symbolises renewal or salvation, as in the book of Isaiah, where it says, 'instead of the briar shall come up the myrtle tree". God promises that there will be abundance. It grew on the hills around Jerusalem and it is a sacred plant in Judaism, because it was used to decorate booths, or shelters, at the Festival of the Tabernacles. Indeed, throughout Europe and the Middle East, there is much folklore associated with myrtle, relating to it being a symbol of romance, devotion, beauty and love. To Persians, Jews and Arabs, myrtle was seen as a symbol of paradise.
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