Common myrtle (Myrtus communis) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Give young Common myrtle trees a good deep-watering often enough to keep the surrounding soil slightly moist. Once the tree matures, you can cut back to watering when the first few inches of soil dry out. This plant has trouble tolerating hard water. Use gathered rainwater if available.

Fertilization

Fertilize planted common myrtle trees when transplanted and then once yearly in spring. Potted common myrtle should be fed once weekly with balanced liquid fertilizer in spring, summer, and fall only.

Pruning

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Soil

Sand, Loam, Clay, Chalky, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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Common myrtle

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

8 to 9

Planting Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Fall, Early winter

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Questions About Common myrtle

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Common myrtle?

Your Common myrtle will not be too picky about how you choose to water it. As such, you can use just about any common watering tool to moisten this plant’s soil. Watering cans, hoses, and even cups will work just fine when it is time to water your Common myrtle. Regardless of which watering tool you use, you should typically apply the water directly to the soil. In doing so, you should ensure that you moisten all soil areas equally to give all parts of the root system the water it needs. It can help to use filtered water, as tap water can contain particles that are harmful to plants. It is also beneficial to use water that is at or slightly above room temperature, as colder or hotter water can be somewhat shocking to the Common myrtle. However, the Common myrtle usually responds well to any kind of water you give it.

What should I do if I water my Common myrtle too much or too little?

For outdoor plants, especially newly planted plants or plant seedlings, they can be prone to lack of watering. Remember that you need to keep watering enough for a few months when the tree is small or just planted. This is because once the roots are established, Common myrtle can rely on rain most of the time.

When your Common myrtle is planted in pots, overwatering is often more likely to.When you accidentally overwater your Common myrtle, you should be prepared to remedy the situation immediately. First, you should stop watering your plant right away to minimize the effect of your overwatering. After, you should consider removing your Common myrtle from its pot to inspect its roots. If you find that none of the roots have developed root rot, it may be permissible to return your plant to its container. If you do discover signs of root rot, then you should trim away any roots that have been affected. You may also want to apply a fungicide to prevent further damage. Lastly, you should repot your Common myrtle in soil that is well-draining. In the case of an underwatered Common myrtle, simply water this plant more frequently.

Underwatering is often an easy fix. If you underwater, the plant's leaves will tend to droop and dry out and fall off, and the leaves will quickly return to fullness after sufficient watering. Please correct your watering frequency as soon as underwatering occurs.

How often should I water my Common myrtle?

Most plants that grow naturally outdoors can be allowed to grow normally with rainfall. If your area lacks rainfall, consider giving your plants adequate watering every 2 weeks during the spring and fall. More frequent watering is needed in summer. In winter, when growth becomes slower and plants need less water, water more sparingly. Throughout the winter, you may not give it additional watering at all. If your Common myrtle is young or newly planted, then you should water more frequently to help it establish, and mature and grow up to have more adaptable and drought tolerant plants.

For potted plants, there are two main ways that you can determine how often to water your Common myrtle. The first way is to set a predetermined watering schedule. If you choose this route, you should plan to water this plant about once every week or once every other week. However, this approach may not always work as it does not consider the unique conditions of the growing environment for your Common myrtle .

Your watering frequency can also change depending on the season. For instance, a predetermined watering schedule will likely not suffice during summer when this plant's water needs are highest. An alternative route is to set your watering frequency based on soil moisture. Typically, it is best to wait until the first two to four inches of soil, usually ⅓ to ½ depth of the pots, have dried out entirely before you give more water.

How much water does my Common myrtle need?

When it comes time to water your Common myrtle, you may be surprised to find that this plant does not always need a high volume of water. Instead, if only a few inches of soil have dried since your last watering, you can support healthy growth in the Common myrtle by giving it about five to ten ounces of water every time you water. You can also decide your water volume based on soil moisture. As mentioned above, you should note how many inches of soil have dried out between waterings. A surefire way to make sure your Common myrtle gets the moisture it needs is to supply enough water to moisten all the soil layers that became dry since the last time you watered. If more than half of the soil has become dry, you should consider giving more water than usual. In those cases, continue adding water until you see excess water draining from your pot’s drainage holes.

If your Common myrtle is planted in an area that gets plenty of rain outdoors, it may not need additional watering. When the Common myrtle is young or just getting established, make sure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As it continues to grow and establish, it can survive entirely on rainwater and only when the weather is hot and there is no rainfall at all for 2-3 weeks, then consider giving your Common myrtle a full watering to prevent them from suffering stress.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Common myrtle enough?

Overwatering is a far more common problem for the Common myrtle, and there are several signs you should look for when this occurs. Generally, an overwatered Common myrtle will have yellowing leaves and may even drop some leaves. Also, overwatering can cause the overall structure of your plant to shrivel and may also promote root rot. On the other hand, an underwatered Common myrtle will also begin to wilt. It may also display leaves that are brown or brittle to the touch. Whether you see signs of overwatering or underwatering, you should be prepared to intervene and restore the health of your Common myrtle.

How can I water my Common myrtle at different growth stages?

When the Common myrtle is very young, such as when it is in a seedling stage, you will need to give it more water than you would if it were at a mature age. During the early stages of this plant’s life, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist to encourage root development. The same is true for any Common myrtle that you have transplanted to a new growing location. Also, the Common myrtle can develop showy flowers and fruits when you give them the correct care. If your Common myrtle is in a flowering or fruiting phase, you will likely need to give a bit more water than you usually would to support these plant structures.

How can I water my Common myrtle through the seasons?

The seasonal changes will affect how often you water your Common myrtle. Mainly, during the hottest summer months, you will likely need to increase how much you water this plant, especially if it grows in an area that receives ample sunlight. Strong summer sunlight can cause soil to dry out much faster than usual, meaning that you’ll need to water more frequently. By contrast, your Common myrtle will need much less water during the winter, as it will not be in an active growing phase. During winter, you can get by with watering once every 2 to 3 weeks or sometimes not at all. For those growing this plant indoors, you should be somewhat wary of appliances such as air conditioners, which can cause your plant to dry out more quickly, which also calls for more frequent watering.

What's the difference between watering my Common myrtle indoors vs outdoors?

In some cases, your Common myrtle may not need any supplemental watering when it grows outside and will survive on rainwater alone. However, if you live in an area of little to no rain, you should water this plant about every two weeks. If you belong to the group of people who live out of this plant's natural hardiness zone, you should grow it indoors. In an indoor setting, you should monitor your plant's soil as it can dry out more quickly when it is in a container or when it is exposed to HVAC units such as air conditioners. Those drying factors will lead you to water this plant a bit more often than if you grew it outdoors.

Is pruning necessary for my Common myrtle?

Before your Common myrtle hedge begins taking over the sidewalk, or your hanging basket Common myrtle start to look scraggly, it is a good idea to think about pruning. Without proper maintenance, Common myrtle may grow rapidly and uncontrollably, crowding out other plants. If you decide to include Common myrtle in your garden or landscaping plan, you should monitor its growth carefully and have a plan for pruning. Pruning is as important for Common myrtle as it is for any other ornamental plant species that you may choose to grow in your garden. If you prune this plant properly, you can enhance its overall health while preserving its most showy ornamental features. With that said, you cannot expect to reap those benefits if you don’t know when and how to prune this species. In fact, improper pruning can cause you to remove the season’s blooms, detracting significantly from the Common myrtle’s beauty. Even if you live in a cooler area or only plan to grow Common myrtle in pots or hanging baskets, regular pruning can encourage blooming and keep your plants healthy and vigorous.

When is the best time to prune my Common myrtle?

To control growth and manage the size and shape of your plants, the time to prune varies according to the climate. In tropical zones, where there is no danger of frost, experts recommend pruning Common myrtle right after the summer growing season. This allows the plant to rest and begin producing new growth. In temperate zones, the recommended time to prune the plant overall is early spring, after the winter and any frost, but prior to the summer blooming season. Avoid pruning in late fall unless you are in a tropical zone as pruning can reduce cold weather hardiness. Additionally, you may want to trim the plants throughout the growing season to encourage blooming. You can also prune at any time if there is any yellowing or diseased foliage.

How can I prune my Common myrtle?

For your major pruning, use sharp pruning sheers that will make clean cuts to avoid damaging your plants. Make each cut at a 45° angle to encourage healthy new growth. Remove any dead or decayed stems first, cutting them off just above the damaged section or cutting them completely to the ground. Next, consider the desired height and shape of your Common myrtle, and then prune accordingly. To control the size of your Common myrtle, you can cut back as much as a third of its height and girth . Late winter or early spring is the best time to do so. Finally, you may prefer to just trim off dead or damaged portions of the plant, including deadheading spent flowers, to keep it looking its best. This can be done at any time of year. Diseased or damaged stems should be cut right at the soil line and removed completely. Blooms should be cut off just below the flower head. Common myrtle is generally vigorous and will not be harmed by pruning. But take care if you live in an area where freezing is likely. If you cut back the stems down to the woody section shortly before a freeze, this can allow water to travel through the stem to the roots, where it may freeze and kill your Common myrtle.

What should I do after pruning my Common myrtle?

Common myrtle is generally tolerant of limited water and may become mildewy with too much water. Right after pruning is a good time to water and fertilizer though, to encourage new growth and blooming. However, care needs to be taken to avoid wounded areas when watering to avoid fungal infestation of the plant through fresh wounds. When you are ready to dispose of sections of the plant that you removed during pruning, there are two important things to keep in mind. Common myrtle leaves or branches found to be diseased need to be trimmed off and destroyed away from the plant. Do not use it as compost material. Wherever you dispose of the trimmings, remember that Common myrtle roots and spreads easily. Be careful that your trimmings do not inadvertently produce new, unwanted Common myrtle.

What are some tips for pruning my Common myrtle?

From hedges to containers, in any landscape or garden, annual pruning and regular trims can encourage Common myrtle produce beautiful blooms and remain healthy for many years. For your major pruning, use sharp pruning sheers that will make clean cuts to avoid damaging your plants. Make each cut at a 45° angle to encourage healthy new growth. As you are pruning your Common myrtle, step back occasionally to check the appearance of the plant to make sure it has the shape you want and that you are pruning it symmetrically. Try not to prune heavily at flowering time, just the dried flowers need to be pruned back as this will affect flowering. A useful approach is to remove only the longer branches and sucker shoots, leaving the blooms closer to the primary stems intact. Finally, as you prune, be on the lookout for mold or mildew. Common myrtle is susceptible to fungal or bacterial and you will want to address this problem, removing molded or fungal(bacterial) sections to avoid further damage to your Common myrtle.

How much/long should Common myrtle get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

For healthy growth, make sure that Common myrtle receives at least 3–6 hours of sun each day. This is actually a minimum requirement—most plants that can handle part sun can also thrive in full sun, but because they require less light for photosynthesis, they are more flexible than plants that require full sun or part shade.

What type of sunlight does Common myrtle need?

Common myrtle does best with exposure to full or part sun. They will perform best with direct morning light, but in summer they need protection from the strong afternoon sun. In temperate environments, too much hot afternoon sun can burn the leaves, damaging the plant's appearance and health.

Can sunlight damage Common myrtle? How to protect Common myrtle from the sun and heat damage?

Common myrtle planted indoors can easily be damaged by direct sunlight when it's moved outdoors. The best way to prevent sunburns from overexposure is to move pots gradually from a shaded area to a brighter spot, gradually. But even plants that are acclimated to the summer sun can be damaged by extreme heat. In a heatwave, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist so that plants can cope with excessive levels of heat. Moving plants in containers to areas with afternoon shade or erecting a shade cloth over them can protect sensitive Common myrtle during extreme weather events.

Does Common myrtle need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Common myrtle from the sun?

While bright morning sun and some full sun exposure can be highly beneficial for Common myrtle, the harsh, hot midday sun of summer can be too much to handle.

If planted in the ground, the summer sun will usually ramp up slowly enough through the season for Common myrtle to gradually adapt to its intensity. But a potted plant that has been indoors or in a protected location will often suffer injury when placed suddenly into a location where the direct summer sun reaches it in the hottest part of the day.

To protect this plant from the brutal afternoon summer sun, plant or place it in an understory location where it is shaded at midday by taller trees and plants or by a building or landscape feature.

What will happen if Common myrtle gets inadequate sunlight?

When Common myrtle receives too little sun, they may become pale green or display drooping, yellow leaves. While some leaf drop is normal, if leaves are dropping but no new ones are growing in to replace them, it is a sign that something is wrong. If Common myrtle receiving inadequate light does manage to grow, the new growth is often spindly, pale, and prone to insect infestation. Paying attention to these signs and changing the lighting conditions of the plant will make a significant difference.

Does Common myrtle need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Tender, new leaves are especially sensitive to sunburn. Bearing this in mind, very young Common myrtle and when it's in a strong growth phase, such as in late spring and early summer, will be more sensitive to harsh sun and heat than the mature one or those in a more dormant fall growth stage. Common myrtle fresh from a nursery is also usually not prepared for strong full sunlight and must be introduced to it slowly.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Common myrtle?

Recently transplanted Common myrtle will often experience a bit of shock and will need to be cared for carefully, either shaded from bright afternoon sun or placed in a protected area. On very hot days, you may see the leaves of Common myrtle drooping—this is usually nothing to worry about. Plants will send the water in their leaves down into their roots to protect them from burning. However, if the leaves are still drooping in the evening or the next morning, the plant needs water. Always avoid watering during the hottest times of day, as sunlight can hit wet leaves and scorch them easily.

Common myrtle that has been underwatered will be weaker than that with consistently moist soil. This can leave it with weak roots that are unable to protect the leaves on hot, sunny summer days by diverting water away from the leaves. Care for an underwatered plant by giving it a long, deep watering and then allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out before the next watering. Even if it loses its leaves, if cared for properly it will grow new ones.

What is the optimal temperature for Common myrtle?

Colder temperatures can affect plants since they have the same temperature as the air around them. When they are exposed to the sun, they can start to get warm again, but this is not the case during winter. The temperature range for the Common myrtle is often 70~85℉(21~30℃). They might tolerate 20~30℉(-6~0℃) even 15℉(-10℃), but not for long since this can result in frost damage. Maximum temperatures should be around 70~85℉(21~30℃), but make sure that you spray them with water from time to time and give them some shade to prevent wilting.

Should I adjust the temperature for Common myrtle during different growing phases?

Do some research and make sure that the temperature is right when growing Common myrtle. Some growers might consider decreasing the plants' thermostats during the growing season to reduce HVAC costs. However, it's vital to understand that the temperature can affect the flowering, pest management, and quality of the plants.

There will be a temperature point where the Common myrtle will stop growing, and this can happen during the winter when some species might go into a dormant state. The base temperature becomes warmer when the season changes and the Common myrtle can grow faster. The species that are naturally growing in warm habitats have higher optimum temperatures when you compare them to the ones that thrive in a cooler climate.

When the seeds of Common myrtle are exposed to cool temperatures, this can cause a decrease in uniformity and delays. You might also want to lower the temperature during flowering but not at other phases. Cooler temperatures at night will also require less water, so adjust the irrigation as needed.

How can I keep Common myrtle warm in cold seasons?

Stop fertilizing the plant to avoid new growth and allow the old ones to become hardy. This way, they can endure colder temperature when it begins to drop. To keep them warm, you can build structures around the Common myrtle like cages or trellises. There are also options to use heat mats that can gently warm the soil since they can consistently maintain an ideal temperature range for the Common myrtle.

How can I save Common myrtle from temperature damage?

During winter, you can protect the Common myrtle from frost by covering it with cloths, tarps, burlaps, sheets, or plastic buckets. Make sure to keep them down so they continue to act as insulators and the wind will not blow them away. However, ensure that the plastic sheets or burlap covers should not touch any part of the fruit or foliage, or the cold temperatures can transfer to the material and cause burns. When the temperatures begin to rise during the daytime, remove the covers.

Should I adjust the temperature for Common myrtle in different seasons?

When growing the Common myrtle in spring, you might want to increase humidity since the air temperature tends to be cooler at this time. A dry temperature can be a stressful growing environment for various species, which can help. If summer arrives, the large cover of the greenhouse and the warm temperature will mean that there will be a higher humidity level in the air. Some signs to look for are the condensation that is often found on the walls of the greenhouse, and this can cause issues with pollination and the development of infections when the water begins to fall on the leaves. Make adjustments according to the temperature and do some spraying during the hotter days of the year.

What damage will Common myrtle suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

Generally, the first cold snap can destroy the Common myrtle and others might go into a dormant state when the temperature is low. Some plants can get chilled when the temperatures range from 20~30℉(-6~0℃). They can freeze when the temperature begins to drop below 32℉(0℃). Those species that hide most of their parts under the soil might lose their structures above ground, but they can recover in spring. Some of the associated issues with too low temperatures are the lack of availability of resources like water, and nutrients, and those subtropical plants can suffer when the temperature reaches below 20℉(-6℃). The plants can also get damaged because of extreme heat stress when it's too high. This can reduce the transpiration rate that can affect the growth and productivity of Common myrtle.

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Common myrtle?

You need to cover the plants at night since these can add about 5 degrees more to protect the species from frost and freezing temperatures. The cloth rows can work well as blankets and ensure that there are no openings where the heat could escape.

When using the covers, avoid the plastic from touching the foliage because this can cause the Common myrtle to freeze. Remember to keep the covers during the day and stop using heat pads during the summer. It will always be worth the effort to protect the cold-intolerant plants from freezing temperatures to help them survive.

How can I keep Common myrtle warm without a heat pad?

If you prefer not to use a heat pad, bring the Common myrtle inside, especially if it's freezing outdoors. During spring, consider the ones you need to bring indoors and plant them in moveable pots and containers.

How can I provide Common myrtle with an adequate temperature condition?

Most often, the ones caring for the Common myrtle will grow them in greenhouses. This is because they can provide adequate temperature in these areas that won't affect the photosynthesis process of a specific process.

Some install the proper HVAC systems to control the temperatures of Common myrtle. This can handle many species' cooling and heating needs, especially during the summer and winter. They generally place the cooling or heating pad under the plants rather than above to achieve their desired temperatures.

If outdoors, you can protect the Common myrtle from frost by covering it with cloths, tarps, burlaps, sheets, or plastic buckets.

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Common myrtle?

Heat mats are often left on Common myrtle to set the temperatures at a more consistent level. When the weather becomes warmer during the day, you can remove them, especially if the species are exposed to the sun. Put the pads away once the plants are established and when they start growing flowers and fruits.

Why do I need to fertilize my Common myrtle?

Regardless of which kind of Common myrtle you own, regular fertilization will help you grow a plant that has great overall health. The proper supply of nutrients leads to more vigorous growth and can help your Common myrtle be more resilient to tough growing conditions while also gaining a better ability to fight off diseases and pests.

The foliage of your Common myrtle is one of its most attractive features, which is why you should do all you can to keep it intact. Again, this means creating and adhering to a regular fertilization schedule that is specific to your Common myrtle. Doing so will prompt your Common myrtle to develop leaves with a deep color and a lush overall look.

When is the best time to fertilize my Common myrtle?

The first time that you should fertilize your Common myrtle is during the late winter or early spring. This type of fertilization gives your Common myrtle all the nutrients it needs to resume healthy growth once the weather gets warm enough.

It is also beneficial to many Common myrtle to provide an additional fertilizer feeding during early fall if you in a warm climate region. Fertilizing in early fall not only adds additional nutrients to the soil, which your Common myrtle will use in the following growing season, but it also helps your Common myrtle be a bit more hardy and capable of surviving the winter cold without experiencing foliage damage. Earlier fertilisation will ensure that the new branches have enough time to grow to withstand the cold winter.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Common myrtle?

There are a few times during the year when you should not fertilize your Common myrtle. The first time occurs during the early and mid-winter months, during which time your Common myrtle will be dormant and in no need of feeding.

It is also unwise to fertilize this plant during the late spring and all of the summer. During that time of year, the weather will likely be hotter and can be much dryer as well. Both conditions make it more likely that your Common myrtle will have a very negative response to fertilization. To avoid such issues, stick to a fertilization schedule that involves feeding exclusively during early spring and early fall.

What type of fertilizer does my Common myrtle need?

In most cases, the most important nutrient for a Common myrtle is nitrogen, but that does not mean that phosphorus and potassium are unimportant. On the contrary, your Common myrtle likely needs a decent amount of all three main nutrients, which is why a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, can work well.

However, a more nuanced ratio of nutrients often leads to optimal growth for a Common myrtle. Often, fertilizers that are a bit higher in nitrogen work a bit better. For example, a ratio of 10-6-4 can often work well. When fertilizing, you can use a granular fertilizer or a liquid-based one.

How do I fertilize my Common myrtle?

To fertilize your Common myrtle using a granular fertilizer, all you need to do is sprinkle the fertilizer on the soil at the correct time. The slow-release nature of granular fertilizer will release nutrients into the soil slowly over time. As is usually the case, it's best to water your Common myrtle, at least lightly, before applying fertilizer.

As an alternative, you can use a liquid fertilizer, but this is less common. To use this approach, mix your fertilizer with water, then pour the water onto the soil around the base of your Common myrtle. At times, it is beneficial to perform a soil test before fertilizing to see if you will need to alter the pH at all.

What happens if I fertilize my Common myrtle too much?

Overfertilization is always a risk when you are feeding a Common myrtle. Overfertilization is especially likely if you feed this plant at the wrong time of year, feed it too often, or feed it without watering the soil first.

When overfertilization takes place, your Common myrtle may begin to develop brown leaves. Your Common myrtle can also show stunted growth in some cases. On the other hand, it is also possible that too much fertilizer can prompt your Common myrtle to rapidly produce too much new growth, much of which will be weak and prone to breaking. Weak new wood can also detract from the overall form and structure of your Common myrtle.

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Explore 6 of plant how-tos on Feng shui direction, Water, Lighting, Temperature, Transplant, etc.

Feng shui direction

Southwest

Common myrtle could potentially harmonize with the Southwest direction, often linked to the Feng Shui Earth element. The plant's reflective energy might help channel positivity and vitality. However, Feng Shui experiences could greatly vary, deepening the connection or causing energies to fluctuate in uncertain ways.

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

The common myrtle prefers slightly damp but well-drained soil, reflecting its origin in habitats with occasional dry spells. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Adjust according to seasonal temperature and humidity variations.

Lighting

Full sun

Common myrtle craves ample light exposure, thriving in conditions where the sun thoroughly bathes the plant for most of the day. It can also cope in conditions with less intense sunlight. It is important to note that, if the sunlight is too scant, it may lead to poor growth and faded foliage. Conversely, excessive exposure could lead to foliage burn.

Temperature

0 to 35 ℃

The native temperature habitat of common myrtle varies, but it generally prefers a temperature range of 59 to 95 ℉ (15 to 35 ℃). In colder climates, it may need protection from frost during winter months. During the summer, it can withstand higher temperatures if given adequate water.

Transplant

4-5 feet

The best time to transplant common myrtle is in early spring or autumn, which is ideal because the temperature and moisture conditions allow for root establishment. Choose a location with well-drained soil and full sunlight. Gently tease the roots before planting, ensuring success for common myrtle's transplant journey.

Pollination

Normal

Bustling bees are the primary pollinators for the common myrtle, drawn by its fragrant allure. These industrious insects play an integral role in the plant's fertilization process, delivering pollen between flowers with unwavering precision. Common myrtle's blooming period, typically during the summer months, aligns perfectly with the bees' active season, ensuring a successful pollination process. Truly, the common myrtle and bees exhibit a harmonious, symbiotic relationship - a testament to nature's intricate design!

Common bean is one of the most widely produced cash crops in the world, with 23.6 million tons grown in 2016. China is the largest producer of common bean, accounting for 79% of the market share. While common bean is known as a staple food source, the leaves can be used to trap bedbugs and the beans are widely used in a type of fortune-telling called "pharmancy".

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Common myrtle based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Aged yellow and dry

Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.

Solutions: If the yellowing and drying of leaves and flowers is a natural progression due to age, nothing can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible.

Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

Solutions: Sap-sucking insects can be hard to spot, as they are often small and attach to the undersides of plant leaves. If you see signs of an infestation, follow these steps to eradicate it. Hand-pick bugs and remove eggs: Inspect your plants for insects and drop any you find in a container of soapy water. Look carefully at the undersides of plant leaves and squish any egg clusters you find. Use Insecticide: Targeted spraying can take out sap-sucking insects. Small infestations can be controlled with insecticidal soap, though larger outbreaks might require a stronger spray. Introduce natural predators: Many insects, including ladybugs and praying mantises, love to feast on sap-suckers. You can purchase them at garden stores and release them near infected plants, or encourage wild ones by creating habitat space.

Leaf rot

This pathogen can cause the leaves to rot.

Solutions: Bacterial infections need to be treated quickly to prevent the spread to neighboring, healthy plants, potentially wiping out large sections of your indoor or outdoor garden. In mild cases: Use sterilized (10% bleach solution) pruning shears or scissors to remove any infected plant parts, making sure to dispose of them off site. Use a copper-based bactericide to treat the unaffected foliage, as well as the soil, and neighboring plants. Follow the manufacturer’s rate and timing directions found on the product label. In severe cases, where more than half the leaves are affected: Remove all of the infected plants from the garden, disposing of them off site. Treat the soil and neighboring plants using a copper-based bactericide. Follow the manufacturer’s rate and timing directions found on the product label.

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a white mold that appears on leaves. It can be wiped away.

Solutions: As powdery Mildew spores are transported by the wind, it can be tricky to put a complete stop to the spread of the fungus. Luckily, there are several easy treatments for plants that are exhibiting symptoms: If powdery Mildew seems to be impacting isolated leaves or stems, they can simply be trimmed away and disposed of. Disinfect pruning tools after doing this. Remove any plant debris from the ground around the infected plants and dispose of it in the garbage. Then, cover the soil with a thick layer of mulch to limit reinfection. Milk sprays have been found to be useful in controlling powdery Mildew. Make up a spray consisting of 60% water and 40% milk and spray on the affected plants. This can also be used as a preventative measure. In cases where powdery Mildew is more widespread, plants can be sprayed with a mild sulfur- or copper-based fungicide or a non-toxic solution made from baking soda and soap. Sprays can help areas that have been recently infected, though they are less effective against well-established infections. If possible, try transplanting the plants to a sunnier location. Though powdery Mildew does fine in hot, dry conditions, it is unable to reproduce without some humidity. Putting plants in more direct sunlight can help stop the spread of the fungus. Trimming around closely-packed plants can help improve airflow, which also prevents the reproduction of the fungus.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Scrub

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Shrub

Flower Color

White

Bloom Time

Summer

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Common myrtle

The plants from Myrtus genus are called Myrtle. It is one of the four species used by Jews in religious ceremonies at the Sukkot Festival. Since it is widely planted everywhere, it is called common myrtle.

Symbolism

Love, joy, remembrance, innocence, purity, good luck, prosperity

Usages

Garden Use

Common myrtle (Myrtus communis) is a popular evergreen shrub in ornamental gardens, offering year-round interest through its fragrant leaves, pretty white flowers, and dark black berries. It is a superb plant for wall and shrub borders in Mediterranean, city, and cottage gardens, growing well with catmint, lavender, and greater masterwort.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

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Most Common Shrub

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Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

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Add to My Garden

Common myrtle

Myrtus communis

Also known as: Roman Myrtle, Bride's Myrtle, Sweet Roman Myrtle, True myrtle, Myrtle

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight

Full sun

Care Guide for Common myrtle

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Soil

Sand, Loam, Clay, Chalky, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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Questions About Common myrtle

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Common myrtle?

What should I do if I water my Common myrtle too much or too little?

How often should I water my Common myrtle?

How much water does my Common myrtle need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my Common myrtle enough?

How can I water my Common myrtle at different growth stages?

How can I water my Common myrtle through the seasons?

What's the difference between watering my Common myrtle indoors vs outdoors?

Is pruning necessary for my Common myrtle?

When is the best time to prune my Common myrtle?

How can I prune my Common myrtle?

What should I do after pruning my Common myrtle?

What are some tips for pruning my Common myrtle?

How much/long should Common myrtle get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

What type of sunlight does Common myrtle need?

Can sunlight damage Common myrtle? How to protect Common myrtle from the sun and heat damage?

Does Common myrtle need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Common myrtle from the sun?

What will happen if Common myrtle gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Common myrtle need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Common myrtle?

What is the optimal temperature for Common myrtle?

Should I adjust the temperature for Common myrtle during different growing phases?

How can I keep Common myrtle warm in cold seasons?

How can I save Common myrtle from temperature damage?

Should I adjust the temperature for Common myrtle in different seasons?

What damage will Common myrtle suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Common myrtle?

How can I keep Common myrtle warm without a heat pad?

How can I provide Common myrtle with an adequate temperature condition?

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Common myrtle?

Why do I need to fertilize my Common myrtle?

When is the best time to fertilize my Common myrtle?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Common myrtle?

What type of fertilizer does my Common myrtle need?

How do I fertilize my Common myrtle?

What happens if I fertilize my Common myrtle too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Common myrtle based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Learn More

Aged yellow and dry

Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.

Learn More

Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

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Leaf rot

This pathogen can cause the leaves to rot.

Learn More

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a white mold that appears on leaves. It can be wiped away.

Learn More

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App

Distribution Map

Habitat

Scrub

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Shrub

Flower Color

White

Bloom Time

Summer

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Common myrtle

Symbolism

Love, joy, remembrance, innocence, purity, good luck, prosperity

Usages

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

Download the App

Related Plants

Zantedeschia aethiopica

# Useful Tips