Xeriscape Landscaping Plants For The Arizona Desert Environment
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Shrubs

Common Myrtle, Myrtus communis

Common Myrtle, Myrtus communis October 11, 2006. Boyce Thompson Arboretum

Common Myrtle Fruit Myrtus communis	Common Myrtle Berries Myrtus communis
True Myrtle, Myrtus communis	Roman Myrtle, Myrtus communis

Common Myrtle Myrtus communis, Myrtle, Eucalyptus, Guava Family: ( Myrtaceae ), Common Myrtle. Also called: True Myrtle, Roman Myrtle. Myrtus communisis an evergreen shrub or small tree with dense foliage. The 2-inch lanceolate leaves are strongly scented when crushed. Myrtles have been cultivated for centuries and they are thought to be native of the Mediterranean Area. They are in leaf all year, in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen in October. The flowers are hermaphrodite (they have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. The plant requires well-drained soil. DO NOT OVERWATER! The fruit has an aromatic flavor and can be eaten fresh when ripe or can be dried and it then can be used as an aromatic food flavouring, especially in the Middle East. It can also be made into a drink. Height: 5 - 8 feet tall and spread as a bush. Up to 15 feet tall and 15 feet wide as a tree. Flowers: The flowers are 3/4 inch, white, solitary arising from a leaf axils and consists of four white petals and numerous conspicuous anthers. Blooming Time: July to August. Leaves: Dark green, opposite, lancelate or oval, up to 2 inches long, aromatic. Fruit: Ripens in October. Oval 1/2 inch dark blue drupe, edible. Containing several white kidney-shaped seeds. Found: From Mediterranean Area. Elevation: 800 - 4,800 Feet. Habitat: Very well drained soil is preferred. Miscellaneous: Photos Taken October 11, 2006. Boyce Thompson Arboretum.