Myrtle

Myrtus

Myrtle Family
Myrtaceae

A number of varieties of the Myrtle genus can be found in the garden.

Luma apiculata, from Chile, flowers in late summer and has striking cinnamon-coloured bark which peels off to reveal a beautiful cream-coloured inner surface.

Ammomytus luma, also from Chile, has citrus-scented foliage and produces fragrant flowers in spring followed by edible black berries.

Myrtus communis, the Common Myrtle, is an aromatic shrub from south-west Europe. It was dedicated to the Roman goddess Venus and myrtle sprays are still used in bridal bouquets.