About Myrtus communis L.
Myrtus communis L., commonly known as common myrtle or true myrtle, is a species of flowering plant in the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. It is an evergreen shrub native to southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia, Macaronesia, and the Indian subcontinent, and is also widely cultivated. This species can grow as an evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching up to 5 metres (16 ft) in height. Its leaves are 2–5 centimetres (1–2 in) long and contain a fragrant essential oil. The flowers are white or pink-tinged, with five petals and numerous protruding stamens. When ripe, its fruit is an edible, blue-black berry. Essential oils extracted from this plant have anti-proliferative and anti-quorum sensing properties, which help prevent food spoilage. The berries are also macerated in alcohol to produce Mirto liqueur. Both this species and its more compact subspecies, Myrtus communis subsp. tarentina, have received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. These plants are hardy, but grow best in a sheltered location with full sun. They can be propagated by sowing stratified seeds that have been held under cold storage for 3 months, or by taking heeled cuttings with a small portion of bark attached, which are kept in moistened rooting medium.
