From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
Myrtles are a group of mostly ornamental flowering plants in the Myrtaceae family, genus Myrtus. They are evergreen shrubs or trees, with a pleasantly fragrant essential oil in their leaves. Flower parts are in multiples of five, with an amazingly large number of stamens. Petals are usually white, with white, globose berries. Insects pollinate the plant. The plants are used in xeriscaping and are tolerant of hot, dry summers.
The Common Myrtle, Myrtus communis, is native to the Mediterranean region and is most commonly grown. Other myrtles include the Weeping Myrtle. Another species of myrtus comes from New Zealand. Most myrtles are tropical or subtropical.
