Dwarf Myrtle (Myrtus communis 'Compacta')

Tender, evergreen, flowering shrub
Description: White, bowl-shaped, five-petaled flowers in summer followed by purple-black berries; aromatic foliage
Habit: Compact, bushy shrub grows to 3' high and wide; can be grown in pots and trained as topiary or bonsai
Culture: Prefers full sun to light shade in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA Zones 9 through 10

This Mediterranean species has been cultivated in Europe since the late sixteenth century. Common Myrtle remains popular as a specimen shrub or informal hedge in Britain. In America during the early 1800s, noted gardener Jean Skipwith included Dwarf Myrtle among her houseplants at her southern Virginia estate, Prestwould. If growing as a houseplant, maintain a cool winter temperature.

Dwarf Myrtle (Myrtus communis 'Compacta') arrives in a 6" pot.