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Myrtle, Tarentina - Myrtus communis subsp. tarentina

Type: T/Perennial MIN 5'

The aromatic Myrtle tarentina (Myrtus communis tarentina) is native to the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, and is cultivated elsewhere in less warm climates. Myrtle has been an emblem of love for many centuries and was used in wreaths and other decorations in Greco-Roman antiquity.

The plant may grow up to 2m tall, and it has leaves that are thick and lustrous, with many small, translucent, oil-bearing glands. The solitary white flowers, about 1.8 cm (about 0.7 inch) long, are held on short stalks, and the fruit is a purplish-black, many-seeded berry. 

Myrtle tarentina is cultivated in the garden for its attractive foliage and the lovely display of flowers in the summer, and it can even be cut into a hedge. Preferring fertile well-drained soil, Myrtle will not stand prolonged frosts or water logged soil, and is best grown in a container in very cold areas.

The leaves and flowers can be dried and added to pot pourri and the berries crushed and added to cooking, particularly game and pork.

Myrtol, a volatile oil found in most parts of the plant, was formerly used as an antiseptic and tonic.