Myrtus communis is the common myrtle (as distinct from crepe myrtle which many gardeners will be familiar with) and is native to the Mediterranean, parts of Asia and the Indian sub-continent.
The plant is evergreen, with small white flowers that almost look like a star that is exploding – small, delicate and really beautiful.
There are also some gorgeous white/purple berries produced in mid-winter. It grows in the form of a small tree but can be pruned as a hedge. It likes full sun.
Gardeners are often looking for a hedge substitute to the justly popular buxus (box). Although box is tough, hardy and makes a wonderful hedge, there is now a wide variety of alternatives, including some native ones.
On a recent visit to the magnificent National Trust property Labassa in Caulfield North in Melbourne, I fell in love with the myrtus hedge that surrounds the property.
Myrtle was a favourite plant of Queen Victoria. When she married Prince Albert, his grandmother gave them a bush of myrtle to bring good luck and prosperity.
It was starting to come into flower and I can only imagine what it would look like in full flower.
There are a whole range of culinary and medicinal uses for this plant – in Corsica and Sardinia it is used to produce a liqueur and in the USA goes into Bologna sausage.
As I always say, however, unless you know what you are on about, be very careful eating any plant.
Myrtle was a favourite plant of Queen Victoria. When she married Prince Albert, his grandmother gave them a bush of myrtle to bring good luck and prosperity.
It was planted at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight. All of their daughters carried a sprig from this very plant in their bridal bouquets. Ever since then royal brides have also had myrtle in their posies.
In English folklore there is a tradition that myrtle will only grow if it is planted by a woman. I have obtained a plant, so we shall see what happens! It is reputed to be very long lived.
- Find out more about Labassa – one of Victoria’s most lavish 19th century mansions HERE
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