Myrtus communis subsp. communis 'Variegata'
Common name(s): variegated sweet myrtle, variegated wild myrtle
Description: evergreen shrub; 'Variegata' is a form with cream-white leaf margins. M. communis subsp. communis is commonly known as wild myrtle and is defined by its larger, broader leaves than subsp. tarentina. Glossy, aromatic foliage and fragrant white flowers in summer that ripen into blue-black berries by autumn. Berries and leaves have been used since ancient times in medicine, cooking, and rituals. Known as 'the wedding herb' since Roman times and still a common addition to bridal bouquets.
Height: to 4 ft. Spread: to 3 ft.
Position: full sun and well-draining soil
Uses: culinary- to flavor meat, liqueurs, stews and stuffings, medicine, ornamental- as a specimen plant or low hedge
Winter Hardiness: to 10 F and below
Drought: adapted to 4 months of summer drought
Notes: Our original stock of M. communis 'Variegata' was sourced from Sandy Mush Herb Farm in North Carolina as M. communis 'Romana' but all accounts of M. communis 'Romana' and M. communis var. romana in the literature make no mention of it having variegated leaves. The only mention of any variegated broad-leaved myrtle in literature from 1896 to present day is solely in reference to M. communis 'Variegata'