common myrtle

Common myrtle (M. communis) is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region and the Middle East, belonging to the genus Myrtus within the family Myrtaceae. This plant, which can grow over 5 meters tall, has thick, lustrous leaves containing oil glands. Its solitary white flowers lead to a purplish-black berry fruit.1

Historically, the common myrtle was sacred to Venus and used as a symbol of love. The plant yields myrtol, a volatile oil previously used for its antiseptic and tonic properties. While many plants are called "myrtles," the true myrtle genus Myrtus has species primarily found in South America, Australia, and New Zealand.12