Description of Myrtus communis L.
Myrtus communis L., also known as the common myrtle or true myrtle, is a small, evergreen shrub that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region but is now cultivated in many countries worldwide, including Asia, Europe, and North America.
General Appearance
The common myrtle grows up to 5 meters tall and has a spreading, bushy habit. The leaves are leathery and glossy, measuring 3-5 cm in length and arranged opposite to each other. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, with five petals and numerous stamens, and they bloom in late spring and early summer. The fruits are small, spherical, and purple-black when ripe, and they contain several small, black seeds.
Common Names
The common myrtle has several common names, including true myrtle, common myrtle, Roman myrtle, Greek myrtle, and Arabian myrtle. In addition, the plant goes by different names in various languages, such as murta in Spanish, mirto in Italian, and murt in Maltese.
Uses
The common myrtle has been used for various purposes throughout history. In ancient times, it was considered a sacred plant in some cultures and was used in religious ceremonies. The plant has a long history of culinary and medicinal uses, too. The fruits and leaves have been used to flavor food and drinks, such as liqueurs and syrups, while the essential oil distilled from the leaves is used in perfumes and cosmetics. The plant is also used in herbal medicine as an antiseptic, astringent, and tonic. Nowadays, the common myrtle is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant, indoors or outdoors, and used to provide greenery, screening, or hedging.
Light Requirements
Myrtus communis is a sun-loving plant and grows optimally in full sun or partial shade. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to grow and produce an abundance of flowers and fruit. When grown in partial shade, the plant will exhibit stunted growth and few flowers or fruits.
Temperature Requirements
Myrtus communis is a hardy plant that tolerates a wide range of temperatures. It grows best in warm to hot climates with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C
It is tolerant of light frost but may require some protection in areas with severe winter temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Myrtus communis prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. It can grow in a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy or even clay soils, but it grows best in well-draining, nutrient-rich soils.
The plant is susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases in poorly drained soils, making it essential to ensure proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering.
Cultivation of Myrtus communis L.
Myrtus communis L. grows best in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant needs to be planted in an area with full sun exposure for optimum growth. It thrives in warm climates and can survive in regions with low rainfall levels. The plant can grow up to 4 meters in height and requires a spacing of at least 1.8 to 2.5 meters between each plant.
Watering needs of Myrtus communis L.
The amount of water requirement depends on various factors such as soil type, humidity, and temperature. Myrtus communis L. requires regular watering during its growing period. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogging, so the soil must be well-drained to prevent the accumulation of water. The plant requires watering once every two weeks during the dry season, but this may vary depending on the soil moisture content. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization of Myrtus communis L.
Myrtus communis L. requires regular fertilization to ensure optimum growth and yield. The plant requires a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The fertilizer should be applied every three to four months, starting in the spring. It is important to avoid over-fertilization as this can damage the plant and lead to the accumulation of harmful chemicals in the soil.
Pruning of Myrtus communis L.
Myrtus communis L. requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and size. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. The plant should be pruned to remove any dead or diseased branches and maintain a compact shape. It is advisable to remove up to one-third of the plant's height during pruning to encourage new growth. It is important to use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant and spreading diseases.
Propagation of Myrtus communis L.
Myrtus communis L., also known as common myrtle, is a lovely plant commonly used in gardens, hedgerows, and container gardening. Propagation is an essential activity for gardeners who love this plant, and it can be accomplished in several ways.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagation for Myrtus communis L. It is best to sow fresh seeds as soon as they become available, preferably in the summer months. The process involves the following steps:
- Soak the seeds in warm water overnight to soften their hard outer covering.
- Sow the seeds in trays or pots containing a well-draining soil mix.
- Water the seed tray or pot immediately after sowing, and keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
- Place the tray or pot in a bright and warm location, preferably where the temperature is between 60 to 70°F.
- The seeds will take approximately two to three weeks to germinate.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation is another viable method to propagate Myrtus communis L. The best time to propagate through cuttings is during the spring or summer months. The process involves the following steps:
- Cut a 4 to 6-inch stem from a healthy Myrtus communis L. plant, ensuring it is a non-flowering shoot.
- Remove all leaves except the top two or three on the cutting.
- Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder or liquid to encourage root growth.
- Insert the cutting into a well-draining soil mix in a pot or tray.
- Water the pot or tray immediately after planting and keep the soil moist until the cuttings establish roots.
- Place the tray or pot in a shaded location, out of direct sunlight.
- The cuttings will take approximately four to eight weeks to grow roots. Once the roots are established, transplant into larger pots or the garden bed.
Layering Propagation
Layering is another viable method of propagating Myrtus communis L. This technique involves the following steps:
- Select a healthy and flexible stem from the Myrtus communis L. parent plant.
- Bend the stem towards the ground and ensure that it stays in place by using a stake or a stone to hold it down.
- Place some soil over the bent stem, enough to cover half of the stem's height.
- Maintain the soil around the stem moist until the stem grows roots.
- Cut the stem from the parent plant once the roots are established, and transplant the new plant into a pot or the garden bed.
The propagation of Myrtus communis L. can be achieved using several methods. Gardeners can choose the propagation method that suits their preferences and skills.
Disease and Pest Management for Myrtus communis L.
Myrtus communis L., commonly known as common myrtle, is a shrub or small tree that is native to the Mediterranean region. Although it is a hardy plant, it is not immune to diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Myrtus communis L. is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white or grayish powdery film on the leaves and stems, and it can cause them to wilt and deform. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to prune affected parts of the plant, maintain proper spacing between plants, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides such as sulfur or copper-based products can also be used for effective disease management.
Another common disease that affects common myrtle is anthracnose, a fungal disease that causes the leaves to turn brown and fall off. To manage anthracnose, avoid overhead watering, prune the infected parts of the plant, and apply fungicides. Proper plant sanitation is also important to minimize the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
One of the most damaging pests that can affect Myrtus communis L. is the myrtle rust mite. These tiny mites feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and distortion of the leaves. To manage myrtle rust mites, it is recommended to prune affected parts of the plant, apply insecticides, and improve plant hygiene.
Another common pest that can affect common myrtle is the aphid. These small insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage aphids, prune affected parts of the plant, remove weeds from around the plant, and apply insecticides or beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Regular monitoring of plant health and early intervention can help prevent and manage diseases and pests that can affect Myrtus communis L. Practicing good plant hygiene, providing proper nutrition and water, and maintaining optimal growing conditions can also contribute to plant health and productivity.
