Greek Myrtle
Scientific Name: Myrtus communis
Common Names: Greek Myrtle, Common Myrtle, True Myrtle
Native to: Mediterranean region, including Greece, southern Europe, and North Africa
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 2 to 10 feet, depending on the variety
Width: 2 to 12 feet, depending on the variety
Winter Look: Evergreen; retains glossy, dark green foliage year-round
Seasonal Interest: Small, fragrant white flowers in late spring to summer, followed by dark purple to black berries in fall
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; tolerates drought once established but performs best with regular watering
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy to loamy soil
pH Range: 6.0 to 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardiness Zones: 8 to 10
Deer Resistance: Moderately resistant
Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and birds (berries)
Potential Issues: Susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils
Notes: Greek Myrtle is a versatile shrub well-suited for Central Texas gardens. It thrives in hot, dry climates and adds a Mediterranean flair to landscapes. It can be used as a hedge, foundation plant, or accent shrub. Regular pruning helps maintain a compact shape and encourages denser foliage. Ensure well-drained soil to prevent root rot and mulch to retain moisture during dry periods.
Common Varieties for Central Texas:
Myrtus communis (Greek Myrtle)
A large shrub growing up to 10 feet tall and up to 12 feet wide.
Myrtus communis 'Compacta' (Dwarf Myrtle)
A compact variety growing 2 to 3 feet tall and wide. It’s perfect for smaller gardens, low hedges, or container planting. Retains the fragrant flowers and berries of the standard variety.
Myrtus communis 'Variegata' (Variegated Myrtle)
This variety features attractive green leaves edged with creamy white/yellow variegation. Its contrasting foliage adds visual interest to gardens while retaining the fragrant flowers and berries. This variety also has a more open growth habit.
This little-known shrub is a slow grower that blooms fragrant, white flowers in the spring. It stays evergreen and blushes purple in the winter. Greeks may get a little frostnipped after a hard freeze. Its minimum temperature is around 15°.
Be aware that there is a standard variety that gets about 10 feet tall and wide. If you are looking for the smaller one, make sure it says dwarf on the tag. There is also a variegated Dwarf Greek Myrtle, one of my favorite plants. It grows a bit more open (almost weeping). It blooms the same and blushes pink in the winter.
