Myrtus communis

Greek Myrtle, Swedish Myrtle, Common Myrtle, True Myrtle

Message of the Flower

To Live Only for the Divine

The Mother’s Comment

This means to have overcome all the difficulties of the individual life.

Spiritual Message by the Mother/ Quotes by Sri Aurobindo

We are united towards the same goal and for the same accomplishment—for a work unique and new, that the divine Grace has given us to accomplish. I hope that more and more you will understand the exceptional importance of this work and that you will sense in yourselves the sublime joy that the accomplishment will give you.

The divine force is with you—feel its presence more and more and be careful never to betray it.

Feel, wish, act, that you may be new beings for the realisation of a new world and for this my blessings shall always be with you.

The Mother, On Education: Replies to Prayers of the Physical Education Groups

Some give their soul to the Divine, some their life, some offer their work, some their money. A few consecrate all of themselves and all they have — soul, life, work, wealth; these are the true children of God.

The Mother

Colour

Pure white

Family

Myrtaceae

Cultivars

Various, including 'Variegata', 'Tarentina', 'Compacta'

Person who named the flower

Carl Linnaeus

Flower Size

1-2 cm in diameter

Flower Texture

Soft, delicate

Number of Petals

five

Floral Symmetry

Radial

Fragrance of Flower

Sweet, aromatic

Leaf Texture

Glossy

Leaf Arrangement

Opposite

Leaf Color

Dark green

Structural Variation (Shrub or Tree)

Shrub or small tree

Life Cycle

Perennial

Blooming Period

Late spring to early summer

Climate

Mediterranean

Water Requirements

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Soil Type

Well-drained, prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil

Temperature Ranges

Hardy to about -5C (23F)

Sun or Shade

Full sun to partial shade

Susceptibility to Insects and Diseases

Susceptible to aphids, scale, and Myrtle rust (Puccinia psidii)

Pollinators

Bees and other insects

Habitat

Native to the Mediterranean region

Role in the Ecosystem

Provides nectar for pollinators

Ornamental

Widely used in gardens for its aromatic foliage and flowers.

Uses in Other Aspects of Life

Wood used in small craftwork.

Endangered Status

Not listed as endangered.