Myrtle Ball

True myrtle - an evergreen shrub whose leaves are strongly scented when crushed. Myrtle trees have been cultivated for so many centuries that their origin is unknown. As clipped balls they make a great feature for a small windowsil and their scented leaves can even be used in cooking!

A symbol of love in both ancient and medieval times, these cute little myrtle balls are looking really lovely again this week with a nice bushy round head as pictured.

25cm high in a 1L pot

We are updating the website all the time, and care instructions will be posted here soon. Please do check back or call us with any questions

Looking after your Myrtle Ball

These instructions are sent with the plant gift

Also known as Greek myrtle or Common Myrtle, these easy to care for plants will reward you with fragrant evergreen leaves all year round. You may even get some small white flowers in Summer

Myrtle likes indirect sunlight and a cool room. In summer you can put it outside on a sheltered patio and it will enjoy the fresh air. But as soon as the nights get cooler, it should go back inside. This plant does best above 10°C and certainly needs to be above 2°C.

As your plant grows you may want to repot it in a larger pot, if it gets untidy just clip it back into shape using sharp scissors or seceteurs.

Myrtle leaves make a great savoury seasoning and can be added fresh or dried to casseroles and soups. Myrtle does tend to shed a few leaves as it puts on new growth but if you notice dramatic leaf drop the most likely cause is underwatering or scorching. Water immediately and move your plant out of direct sunlight.

We are updating the website all the time, and new information will be posted here soon. Please do check back or call us with any questions

Myrtle

myrtus communis

Myrtle probably comes from the ancient greek 'myrtus' as do many other european common names.

white flowers in spring/summer

small blue bitter tasting berries

easy to care for shrub that can be pruned to keep a symmetrical shape. Useful for pots as topiary but can also be planted out.

Originating in eastern europe, myrtle has been cultivated for centuries and is referred to in the old testament.

Season: Jan to Dec

Medicinally an infusion made from the leaves is said to ease flatulence and colic and to help chest infections when taken with honey. In eastern europe and italy, myrtle's aromatic leaves are used in cooking to add flavour to meat and stews

Further information available at http://mygarden.rhs.org.uk/blogs/jim_gardiner/archive/2008/04/30/mount-myrtle.aspx