Myrtle (Myrtus, Myrtle tree) belongs to the family Myrtaceae (Myrtaceae) and combines more than 40 species of evergreen shrubs of the tree type with dense branching. The particular distinctive quality of this plant is the high content of beneficial essential oils in fruits and leaves with small black dots on the underside of the plate. But lovers of indoor plants appreciate myrtle for the opportunity to form a very beautiful miniature tree from a lush shrub (including bonsai with almost any form of crown).
Caring for this miniature tree at home does not cause much difficulty even for novice gardeners, if you follow fairly simple rules and in time to prune branch shoots. Photos of indoor species and varieties of myrtle, as well as tips on home care for the plant, are found later in this article. Cultivation of a myrtle tree can be compared to the degree of difficulty with caring for such popular indoor plants as Ficus Benjamin, Dracaena Marginata, Homemade Yucca, Crassula Money Tree, Zamiokulkas Dollar Tree, Hamedorea Palm Tree, Deciduous Monstera.
The aroma and beneficial properties of the essential oil from the leaves of myrtle have been used by people for hundreds of years. In addition, since ancient times “liquid incense” and “myrrh” have been used as a cult attribute in various religious events by servants of many well-known concessions. Some modern skincare products include myrtle oil containing such beneficial substances as myrtilin, camphein, amino acids, camphor, cyneol. Many pharmaceutical companies also widely use myrtle oil for the manufacture of effective medicines. For example, myrtle nutrients contribute to the speedy recovery, the formation of bone tissue.
Traditional medicine has also successfully and successfully used fruits, flowers, leaves of myrtle for the manufacture of medicinal tinctures, ointments and decoctions. In black tea, you can add the flowers of this plant to restore the health of the intestine. Infusion of the fruit restores the skin of the head and strengthens the hair follicles. Broth from the leaves can quickly cure even a purulent quinsy (Pour a teaspoon of myrtle with 200 ml of boiling water, insist, cool and pass through cheesecloth. Gargle the sore throat 2-3 times a day). Some growers grow myrtle exclusively as a therapeutic agent along with a therapeutic Kalanchoe.
Since ancient times, the myrtle tree is considered a symbol of kindness and mercy, and also personifies tranquility, silence and inner harmony. Previously, village girls with pleasure wove magnificent wreaths from the twigs of myrtle on a beautiful bride's hair, as well as to decorate a wedding event. But even today, the symbolic meaning of the myrtle has not lost its relevance. If single women are given spathiphyllum Women's Happiness, and men are given Anthurium Men's Happiness, then you can present happy newlyweds a beautifully decorated myrtle tree, which is a symbol of a successful marriage and family well-being, as a wedding gift. A wedding bouquet is presented during a ceremonial wedding, and the tree can be presented to the bride after wedding events. By the way, the myrtle will look great in any floristic composition. Experienced phytodesigners interestingly place such flowering houseplants on the background of miniature trees as orchid phalaenopsis or dendrobium, geranium pelargonium, saintpaulia violets with bright flowers, tuberous begonia, home balsam, hydrangea and gerbera.
At home, Myrthus ordinary (Myrtus communis) is usually grown, its height reaches 40-80 cm, depending on the variety. Caring for this indoor tree is not at all complicated. The small shiny leaves of this evergreen plant grow on short petioles and have an elongated ovoid shape, pointed at the end. The period of flowering at home can only come in 4-5 years from the time of planting. Single white flowers with a pinkish tinge can be both simple and terry. The fruits of myrtle are dark blue berries. With the help of timely pruning you can form the desired type of trunk and crown in myrtle.
- photo: myrtle tree flower
If you want to form a pretty bonsai tree from a woody shrub, then begin to shorten the shoots with pruning to stimulate thickness growth after the myrtle reaches a height of 30 cm. Considering the position of the shoots in the crown, leave after trimming from one to five pairs of leaves. Since young shoots often grow strictly upwards, a thin wire can be used to form the desired crown shape. And with the help of fixing tension devices, you can adjust the direction of old and thick branches. We can recommend growing your first bonsai tree to novice florists from unpretentious myrtle or room shefflera. Blooming bonsai of Chinese rose hibiscus, azalea or fuchsia looks more impressive, but taking care of these indoor plants at home is somewhat more complicated.
- Photo: Myrtle Bonsai
♦ WHAT IS IMPORTANT!
Location and lighting.
Myrtle tree can be placed on a rack with shelves or on a stand next to a window on the western or eastern side of the room. But the most suitable location for this plant is next to the window on the south side, as the myrtle belongs to the light-loving indoor plants. On sunny spring and summer days, be sure to shade the window glass so that direct sunlight does not fall on the leaves of the tree, which can lead to yellowing and dropping foliage.
Temperature mode.
The optimum temperature in the spring-summer season is 18-25 ° C. Ventilate the room often and protect the myrtle from extreme temperature fluctuations during the day. To improve the decorative value of the plant, it is desirable to keep the tree in winter at a temperature of 7-10 ° C. If possible, take a pot of myrtle tree on an unheated glazed balcony or loggia.
Air humidity.
Myrtle feels comfortable with a high level of humidity (more than 60%). In spring and summer, you can put a container with water next to the pot, and the pot itself - on a tray with wet expanded clay. On hot days, try as often as possible to spray the tree with warm settled water. If the plant is indoors during the heating season, then spray it daily with water.
Watering.
Water for irrigation - soft warm and settled for several days. On hot summer days, water it abundantly several times a week. The substrate should be constantly hydrated, but without stagnant moisture at the level of the root system. In autumn and winter, watering should be moderate - once a week with a short period of drying out of soil between irrigations. But if the soil dries out for a long time, then the leaves of the myrtle tree turn yellow and fall off.
Mixing and feeding.
How to prepare the earth mixture by yourself? Take in equal parts garden soil, peat and perlite, mix thoroughly. Instead of perlite and peat, you can use pure river sand and leaf earth.
Top dressing should be made in the spring and summer period once a week. You can use complex organic fertilizer for flowering indoor plants without lime content. In autumn and winter, fertilizer should be applied no more than once a month.
Transfer.
Up to 3 years of age should be transplanted myrtle annually in October-November. For transplantation, choose a deep pot 3 cm wider than the old one, at the bottom of which you need to pour a drainage layer with expanded clay. Do not dig the root collar during transplantation. An adult myrtle tree is transplanted once every 2-3 years, when the earthy clod is strongly interwoven with the roots of the plant.
Reproduction.
At home, myrtle can be propagated by seed or by grafting.
Seeds. Pour peat mix with sand into the container, sow the seeds and sprinkle with the same substrate a little. To maintain a high level of humidity and optimum temperature, cover the container with a plastic bag and spray the substrate daily. Lighting - diffused. Sprouts appear after a month. Sprouted seedlings pinch at the required height in order to make it easier to further form the crown of the tree.
Cuttings.From the side shoot, cut the stem of 9 cm. The cut point can be treated with a root formation stimulator and the lower leaves should be removed. For rooting, deepen the cuttings into a mixture of peat and sand, and cover the container with a transparent film. It is important that the substrate temperature does not fall below 25 ° C. Regularly water the soil and after a few weeks the cutting should finally take root.
Myrtle is an evergreen plant known to humanity for many millennia. He was given special importance in ancient times and was considered a satellite of the gods. Myrtle tree is a valuable source of essential oil. The name of this plant in other languages is:
- deutsch - Braut-Myrte, Gemeine Myrte, Korsischer Pfeffer;
- english - myrtle, Greek myrtle;
- french - myrte, vrai myrte.
Appearance
Myrtle is a low shrub (the maximum height of some subspecies is 5 meters). The leaves are dark green, rounded, pointed at the end. The inflorescences are white, round and fluffy. Fruits - blue-black berries with a diameter of about 1 cm.
Kinds
There are two types of myrtle tree:
- ordinary - differs in small foliage and beige or slightly reddish inflorescences;
- saharan - is an endangered species that grows in the mountainous areas of Southern Algeria and the Republic of Chad.
Where is growing?
The homeland of common myrtle is considered to be the Mediterranean. Today it is especially prevalent in the countries of North Africa and the Middle East, as well as in Europe. In Russia, a small number of myrtle trees grow in the Crimea.
Stocking
Best for the manufacture of spices suitable leaves myrtle tree at the age of 3 or 4 years. The collection is carried out from the middle to the end of autumn. Collected foliage is dried in a dry, well-ventilated area. When the leaves are dry, you should arrange them in canvas bags and store them in a cool, dark place.
Specifications
- dark green color;
- bitter-spicy taste;
- rich herbal, slightly bitter aroma.
Chemical composition
- essential oil
- camphor
- aldehydes
- protein substances
- tannins
- resins
- polyphenols
- flavonoids
- saponins
- myrtilin
- pinen
- limonene
- cineole
- linalool
- terpineol
- myrtenol
Essential oil-rich myrtle helps get rid of headaches and relieve hangover.
Beneficial features
- is a natural antiseptic;
- tones up;
- has a diuretic effect;
- possesses antifungal properties;
- relieves pain;
- helps to normalize the digestive tract;
- strengthens the immune system;
- is a good expectorant;
- has an astringent effect;
- beneficial effect on the nervous system.
Myrtle - a powerful natural antibiotic
Harm
- It is believed that if you put a pot with a myrtle tree in the bedroom, in the morning you will experience a severe headache.
- Acceptance of infusions and decoctions on the basis of myrtle before bedtime, especially in large quantities, can lead to sleep disorders.
Contraindications
- pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- individual intolerance;
- elderly age.
Butter
Essential oil is obtained from young shoots and foliage of the myrtle tree by steam distillation. Myrtle oil has a pleasant, complex aroma, so it is widely used in the manufacture of cosmetic and perfume products. It also has a bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect and is used to treat diseases of the respiratory and urinary system. In addition, regular use of myrtle's essential oil significantly improves skin condition and hair structure.
Application
In cooking
- in Italy, a liqueur called myrto is made from the fruit of the myrtle tree;
- in France, jam is made from the berries of the world;
- the dried fruits of myrtle are used in the production of certain types of sausages;
- myrtle leaves are added to pickles and marinades;
- grilled meat and fish using the bark and branches of myrtle tree acquire a unique flavor;
- myrtle makes the dishes bitter, so you should add it to food in very small quantities.
Fish stew
The carcass of any lean fish cut into pieces of the desired size. 2 carrots cut into slices, 1 onion - large rings. Put the fish and vegetables in a pot with thick walls or in a cauldron, add a few leaves of myrtle tree, salt and pepper to taste. Pour half a glass of water and simmer until tender.
Prepare 1 kg of chicken fillet, cut into small cubes. Cut onion, 2 carrots, small squash, cauliflower, tomato and paprika. Take a deep saucepan or chafing dish and lay food products; onion, bird, carrot, zucchini, pepper, tomato, cabbage. Put one leaf of myrtle tree on each layer. Add a little water and simmer until tender.
In medicine
Medicines prepared on the basis of myrtle are used to treat and prevent the following diseases:
- herpes infection;
- inflammation of the female reproductive system;
- pyelonephritis;
- cystitis;
- prostatitis;
- gastrointestinal tract diseases;
- becoming sick with ENT organs;
- flu;
- asthma;
- bronchitis.
Apply with allergies to antibiotics in the treatment and prevention of influenza, tuberculosis and herpes virus
Folk recipes
- With a cold You can strengthen the immune system and cope with the disease more quickly if you chew a few leaves of the myrtle tree after a meal.
- With purulent inflammations on the skin,help lotion with a decoction of myrtle. Pour 10 grams of dried leaves with a liter of cold water and boil for 10 minutes. Moisten a piece of sterile bandage in broth and attach to the affected area for a few minutes. Repeat the procedure should be 2 or once a day.
- With bronchitis, Prepare a mixture of healing herbs: 10 grams of primrose roots, 15 grams of lemon balm, 20 grams of myrtle, 20 grams of eucalyptus. Pour 1 tbsp. mix with a glass of boiling water and let it brew for 20 minutes. Take one glass 3 times a day.
- With a kidney infection, It should be prepared infusion of dried leaves of myrtle tree. To do this, pour 10 grams of leaves with a liter of hot water and leave for 10-15 minutes. Drink one glass 2 times a day.
In cosmetology
In cosmetology, essential oil of myrtle tree is used. It is characterized by the following beneficial properties:
- nourishes and moisturizes the skin;
- evens out skin color and gives it a healthy look;
- restores local skin immunity;
- relieves inflammation;
- is a good remedy for acne and acne;
- strengthens hair follicles;
- improves hair structure.
Growing up
Myrtle tree can be a houseplant. Keeping it at home is not at all difficult, but you need to take into account several important points:
- Fresh air is very important for the myrtle tree, so the most suitable place for it is on the windowsill (it is best to choose the west or east side), and in summer on the open balcony or on the garden.
- A few hours a day, the plant must be in direct sunlight.
- During the winter months, the myrtle needs plenty of sunshine.
- It is necessary to gradually move the pot with a myrtle tree to a new place, moving it by 10–20 cm every day.
- The optimal temperature for myrtle is room temperature. Coolness is more preferable for him than heat. In winter, if possible, put the plant in a cold place where the temperature does not exceed +8 degrees. Otherwise, the myrtle can shed the leaves.
- At any time of the year, the potted soil should be constantly wet. Watering requires warm, soft water.
- In the summer months, the plant should be sprayed every day, and in the winter, spraying is not required.
- In spring, summer and autumn, the myrtle tree should be fed weekly with selected fertilizer.
- The desired shape of the myrtle tree can be given by cutting the branches from different sides. If you want your myrtle to grow into a low bush - cut it from above, and if you prefer a miniature tree, then you need to cut the side branches.
Breeding
Myrtle can breed by cuttings and seeds. Propagation by cuttings is preferable, since in this case the plant will bloom faster. The most favorable time for grafting is winter and summer (more often than twice a year, the procedure should not be repeated). Cuttings taken from the bottom or from the middle of the trunk. The maximum length of the cutting is 8 cm. The leaves are cut or shortened. Then the cuttings are rooted in a shallow container filled with sand and moss, and covered with a special cap. Periodically, young plants are watered and ventilated. Indoors maintain the temperature not higher than +20 degrees. A month later, the cuttings are seated in separate small pots.
Paradise. So they say about many beautiful. But, in the legends it is said that only one myrtle. His branch, as a reminder of the lands of God, took with him Adam.
Expelled from Paradise, he rooted myrtle. Flowersince then has become a sign of hope. It became plant myrtleand a symbol of peace. This interpretation is related to the appearance of Zechariah and the angel. The plot is taken from the "Bible."
To announce the restoration of the kingdom of Israel, the saints came in a myrtle bush. His branch, according to the scriptures, brought a dove in its beak after the Great Flood. In general, fanned by legends. And what is the myrtle in reality?
Description and features of myrtle
The hero of the article belongs to the family of Mirtovas. It includes angiosperms. Company myrtle ordinarymake up, for example, Guava and Clove. The hero of the article, too.
It is evergreen, undersized. The height of myrtle closer to the bush is 60-70 centimeters. The branches are dotted with small leaves. They are planted in pairs opposite each other, differing in rich green color and glossy shine.
Leaves of myrtle not only beautiful, but fragrant. In the ethers allocated by the tree, there are phytoncides. They are biologically active, suppress pathogenic microorganisms. Therefore, home myrtle and wild air disinfect.
In the photo myrtle room
In ancient times, the phenomenon could be explained only by divine origin. From here, as historians believe, and legends about the stay of Mirtha in Paradise. Believers these things insults.
But, if you do not look at Mirth, it is useful and smells good. The aroma is saturated. It is feared, for example, by pathogens of diphtheria, staphylococci, streptococci and tuberculosis.
Myrtle at homeand open ground is able to clear around 100 cubic meters of the atmosphere. Such is the "work" of one and a half squares of green wood. This is the foliage area.
Abundant and blooming Mirta On the picture appears with buds resembling apple trees. However, volumetric tufts of stamens emerge from the center of white five-leafed leaves. They give buds fluffiness.
Mirta in Ancient Greece became an integral attribute of wedding wreaths. Of the modern brides, the tradition is kept by Germans. In Greece, however, there is only a legend about the origin of the name Mirta Breedingplants began after the death of Mirsin.
That was the name of one of the nymphs Athens. The goddess of war was known as a swift runner. However, in one of the competitions Mirssina bypassed the lady in the sprint.
On the photo is blooming myrtle
In anger, Athena killed the nymph, but, repenting, begged the Gods to leave her a reminder about the girl. The Colleagues took pity on Athena, turning the body of Mirsina into an elegant tree.
Outside the legends, the Mirth appears not in one second, but grows over the years. refers to the colors of slow development. For the year, the increase is not more than 15 centimeters. Usually, it is 10 centimeters.
Accordingly, an adult tree is formed only on the 6-7th year after planting. By the way, in the Mediterranean region the hero of the article reaches 2-5 meters in height, reaching for them for 20-30 years.
The gigantism of the Mediterranean Mirtha is associated with comfortable conditions for it. In Russia Mirta room and gardener feels alien environment, develops worse. However, losing in size, the beauty of the plant from the Mediterranean is not lost.
Planting and breeding myrtle
Myrtle in the open ground winters only in regions where the temperature in winter does not fall below -8 degrees. Crawl up the thermometer below, die.
Therefore, most Russians choose Myrtle as a room flower. Propagated by its seeds or. The latter are taken from the parent plant from January to February, or in the summer.
In the photo myrtle wax
In the warm season using green cuttings. They are young, flexible, but more vulnerable to rot. Winter branches are stiff. Such cuttings are more resistant, but require storage until spring in a dark, cool room. It is customary to place cuts in a slightly damp ground.
For cuttings of Mirtha suitable branches about 7 centimeters long. You can navigate and the leaves. On the handle they should be 2-3 pairs. The lower ones are removed. Other leaves are cut in about half.
This is necessary to save Mirtha’s energy for growth. Stay on the cuttings of the leaves, instead of rooting the branches will begin to send resources to maintain their tone.
Landing Mirtha cuttings implies keeping them in a growth stimulator. Preparations are sold in florists and gardeners. In the stimulator, the cuttings are dipped about a centimeter, holding for 2 hours.
After that, sections of the branches are washed with running water and stuck 2-3 centimeters into the ground. It is made up of river sand, and vermiculite. They are taken in equal shares.
Planted cuttings of Mirtha are covered with a film and placed in a well-lit place, but without direct rays. They can burn. The temperature also needs an average of about 20 degrees. Will require regular airing.
On the day of the pots open for 30-50 minutes. At this time, the cuttings are watered. It is enough to sprinkle the ground with a spray gun. Shoots will appear in 2-4 weeks. After waiting for 2 full sheets, the seedlings are transplanted in pots with a depth of about 7 centimeters. In open ground Myrth is carried with 8-10 leaves.
Reproduction of Mirtha seeds begins in late February. The deadline for sowing is the end of May. If there are fluorescent lamps, you can sow all year round, providing the sprouts backlight.
Before planting, Mirtha seeds are washed in a weak solution of potassium permanganate. It disinfects the grain. After, they need to be dried and planted in the same substrate as the cuttings. Deepen seeds 0.5 cm.
The depth of the pot should be about 7-10 centimeters. Further, the scheme coincides with the rooting of cuttings. It is necessary to cover the landing film or glass, put in a bright, warm place and wait. Shoots will appear in 1-2 weeks.
At the stage of 2 leaflets seedlings dive. Pinching off the tip of the root, flower growers stimulate its branching. With a powerful root system, the tree survives faster in the open field, it is better against disease, it blooms more abundantly, because it takes more nutrients from the soil.
Care of myrtle
An adult Myrtle carries a small amount of direct rays from the sun. Accordingly, put on the western and eastern windows. To the southern tree move in winter. In the summer from the south a bush is covered from the sun by tulle.
On the north windows require lighting. Without it, the tree will be spectacular, but will refuse to bloom. The buds, by the way, are blooming on Mirta from mid-summer to mid-autumn.
Mirth Reviewstalk about his love of fresh air. But the heat-loving plant does not tolerate drafts. Therefore, the tree is carried out to the fresh air in summer. For hardening the bush, you can bury the pot with him in the open ground.
Its coolness will enhance the health of the plant, and warmth from above will give comfort. By the way, Mirth likes relative coolness. Comfortable temperature - 18-20 degrees. This is summer. In winter, the tree needs cool not higher than 10 degrees.
This makes it difficult to grow Mirtha in room conditions. In most Russian cities, the heating season “brings” 20-25 degrees to homes. We have to make the hero of the article in the glazed balconies, on the cool verandas. Otherwise, the Mirth drops foliage, losing decorativeness.
During the period of active growth, that is, from spring to autumn, the hero of the article is watered abundantly. Oriented to the drying of the top layer of soil. Use distilled water. It should be soft. Rigid is a liquid that is saturated with salts of magnesium, calcium and iron. If they are present in tap water, filters are required.
In winter, Myrtle is watered sparingly. If serious drying is allowed, the pot with a tree is immersed in a container with warm water. After saturating the soil, the pot is taken out, watching the tray. Water in it should not stagnate. This leads to decay of the roots.
Better to overdo it with humidity. The Mediterranean needs 60 percent or more. In apartments during the heating period, the humidity is usually 30%. Accordingly, it is necessary to spray Myrtle 2-3 times at least.
Spray the hero of the article with the same soft, warm water. If kept cool, irrigation is excluded. Still want buy myrtle? Then stock up. From spring to autumn it is made daily. Only so stimulated flowering of the tree.
Work with the same form can be trimmed. Without it, the plant is like a triangle. Cutting the top of the main shoot, we get a bush. Removing the side shoots gives a rounded and dense crown.
You should not get carried away with pruning because of the fragility of the trunk of a young Mirtha. Excessive branching, and hence the mass of green, can break the base, provoke its cracking.
Types and varieties of myrtle
In Russia, an Ordinary Myrtle is mainly grown. In the Mediterranean, the tree grows in the northern regions, and therefore withstands the climate of a number of domestic regions. Bush shoots smooth, upright.
However, with age, the bark of the “Ordinary” Mirtha coarsens and cracks. Sometimes, the outer layer falls off the stems. The leaves of the bushes are about a centimeter long and 2 times less than the width. The petioles in the green are short, like the pedicels of the buds. The latter on the “Ordinary” Mirte are dissolved from July to August.
On photo Sugar Myrtle
Myrtle "Sugar" grown only at home. The plant from Africa, beyond its limits does not meet. The Sahara endemic is drought tolerant and quite miniaturized. In nature, the tree grows up to 2 meters.
For comparison, the “Ordinary” Myrtle is pulled out by 5 meters. At home, "Sugar" varieties, usually 60 centimeters. At the same time, the tree has large leaves. Their length is 4-5 centimeters. The shape of the green lanceolate.
Leaves are also "wrinkled" Mirta Priceplants are high due to corrugated greens. In addition, you can adjust the color of the leaves. Green they are in the shade, and redden in the sun. The length of the plates is 2-2.5 centimeters.
The problem is the height of the trees of the species. In nature, they grow up to 8 meters. In room conditions, “wrinkled” varieties are reduced only to 3, requiring extensive rooms with high ceilings.
In cultivated views of mirthenters and "back heart". His bushes are different pomp. At the same time, the “Backward” Myrtle is miniaturized. In nature, the tree does not reach 2 meters. In the home, the plant does not exceed a meter.
Shown in the "Backward" Myrtle with purple sheets and bright. The fruits gradually turn black. Russian flower growers prefer the variety "Liliput". It is a compact growth of about 60 centimeters.
In the photo myrtle Communis
"Liliput" is a hybrid of the "Reverse Heart" and "Wrinkled" species. Therefore, propagating the tree with seeds is risky. Children do not inherit all the qualities of the parent tree.
These are the features of hybrids. But, they are different decorative and resistant to disease. By the way, about the latter. Let's talk about how myrtle is afflicted and how to deal with them.
Myrtle Diseases and Pests
Saturated scent of mirtha with disinfecting "notes" frightens off pests. They are selected to the bush only at high temperatures, weakening the plant. This is used by the whitefly, spider mite, scytworm, and mealy worm.
There are chemicals against them. Sell them in flower shops. There are complex tools immediately from 4 pests. Of the popular mixtures of universal is a solution of household soap.
Mirth's diseases include the yellowness of leaves and their curling. The problem is over-lighting. High temperatures, as mentioned, provoke a discharge of greenery. The same happens in drought conditions.
Seasoned growers shorten shoots by half. Already on the 2nd week new leaves will appear and, at the same time, the old ones will not fall off. Water, of course, is also needed.
People with a sensitive sense of smell need to fear not so much the diseases of the hero of the article, but their own. The rich aroma of Mirta can cause headaches, annoying. It's one thing to inhale the incense for a couple of hours in the church.
Another question is to be near Myrt constantly. Before you start a tree, it is advised to buy its essential oil and evaporate from the aroma lamp for several days. If the aroma is not annoying, you can buy a live bush.
Myrtle is one of the most popular indoor plants of a grower. This is not surprising, because myrtle tree is incredibly beautiful and useful. In addition, it has a rich history of origin and very beautiful symbolism. There are many legends and beliefs associated with this leafy handsome.
Myrtle - a plant from the genus of evergreen shrubs and trees. It belongs to the family of myrtle and originates in ancient Greece. For many centuries, this tree is considered a symbol of beauty and youth, and also it symbolizes happiness and well-being in the family. As a decorative flower, the myrtle plant has been forming for 400 years. In room conditions the flower can reach 1 m in height, in natural it grows upwards by 3-4 meters.
Leaves of tree shrubs
A woody shrub has straight stems that are fairly densely branched. The leaves of this handsome dark green, dense, leathery. The shape of the myrtle leaf is oblong, tapering slightly to the edge. On the stems the leaves grow very abundantly and keep on small petioles. The length of one leaflet ranges from 2 to 5 cm. The leaves can have different shapes depending on the type of plant, for example, myrtle hekwen has wrinkled edges on the foliage.
The leaves of myrtle are shiny and have a pleasant smell. The fact is that the leaves contain small glands, which can be viewed closely with good lighting. It is thanks to these glands the leaf of the plant produces essential oils and aromatic substances. Essential oil of myrtle helps relieve fatigue, well soothes and heals insomnia. However, one should be careful with myrtle scent, excessive amounts of it can cause nausea and dizziness.
Flowering houseplant
Myrtle flowers grow in the axils of the leaves singly, or flowering is collected in whole brushes. The bloom is mostly white, sometimes pink shades of flowers are found. The flowers themselves are small, very fragrant and fragrant. Flowering indoor myrtle pollinated with a brush. The tree blooms in early summer, and in autumn it bears fruit. The fruits of this plant contain spice, they are edible and juicy, deep blue or deep red in appearance.
Popular types of myrtle
Today there are about one hundred different types of myrtle. This fragrant leafy handsome is represented by the wealth of its species around the world, but the most common is the myrtle, or, as it is also called, communis. And this is not surprising, since flower growers consider the myrtle plant to be the most unpretentious flower from the myrtle family. The characteristic features of this tree are five-petal flowers with golden stamens in the center, as well as a strongly branched trunk, rather short.
Such species as small-leaf myrtle, lush myrtle, Ralph myrtle, and myrtle hekven enjoy great popularity. Also, such a form as Tarenina Granada, a dwarf flower that gives its owners a beautiful lush bloom, is included in the description of the myrtle plant. All these species have differences in the shape of the leaves and branches, as well as the color of the fruits, but they are all incredibly beautiful and unique.
Medicinal and beneficial qualities of myrtle plants
It is not in vain that the characterization of a myrtle has such an interesting moment: the word “myrtle” is translated from Greek as “balsam”.
You can list for a very long time how myrtle is useful and how it is valued in medicine. This southern plant has a huge storehouse of healing properties. Today, everyone who cares about their health is interested in the topic - the myrtle plant: its properties and application, because this small room dweller is very rich in the most useful qualities.
The flower is able to clear the air in the apartment, to protect the inhabitants of the house from bacteria and annoying viruses, for example, from SARS disease, from tuberculosis and diphtheritic bacilli. The antibacterial properties of myrtle plants are widely known, as well as the fact that the flower contributes to the anti-inflammatory processes of the body.
Various tinctures are made from the tree, which help with intestinal diseases, assist in the fight against cancer, help to cope with heart diseases, have healing effects on sinus, diabetes, liver and kidney diseases. Interestingly, myrtle is also used for various allergic symptoms.
The essential oil, which is contained in the foliage, bark and flowers of trees, perfectly tones and soothes. This oil is widely used for cosmetic purposes, because it treats the skin from acne, gives it freshness, strengthens the hair. And myrtle oil invigorates and improves mood. And the beneficial properties of the myrtle plant do not end there. This evergreen flower softens the smoker’s cough and boosts immunity.
Proper care of myrtle at home
Many amateur growers are wondering how to care for myrtle so that it grows healthy and strong. Any indoor flower needs a reverent and attentive care, because it needs to feel caring. If the care of the plant myrtle at home was complete, then this beautiful indoor room will certainly please the grower with its lush growth. To do this, follow a few simple tips.
Place and lighting for the flower
Myrtle loves sunshine, but the sun should be moderately, especially on hot summer days. Do not keep a pot of myrtle tree in the heat. It is best to put a flower on a well-lit area, or on the windowsill. It will be great if the tree is on the west or east side. In summer, caring for a myrtle plant requires less effort; it is enough just to take it out to fresh air, for example, to a balcony. In winter, you need to provide a good lighting flower.
Air temperature and humidity
Favorable atmosphere for the myrtle flower: how to care, how to keep the temperature, how to freshen it up and not to overdry it? All this is quite simple. Myrtle tree grows well at moderate air temperatures, in winter it will feel good at temperatures up to eight degrees below zero. If you keep myrtle cool in the winter, in the summer this handsome man will bloom thickly and abundantly. In the summer season, you just need to keep the flower in the fresh air, but protect it from the sultry heat.
Humidity of this evergreen tree requires high and very poorly copes with dry air in the room. The plant needs constant spraying in the summer, as well as in the spring and in the warm autumn, when it grows vigorously and grows stronger. If it is cold, you can not spray it.
Soil, fertilizer, and watering
The soil in the pot of myrtle plant should remain fairly moist. Pot is recommended to contain equal quantities of sand, humus, peat land and sod land. You can also make the soil from clay, humus, peat and sod land in equal quantities and add sand. Watered room tree should be regularly, but in moderation, it is not worth much to fill the pot. Water used for irrigation is warm.
How much does a myrtle houseplant require fertilizer: growing and care during fertilizing, are there any particularities? The fact is that top dressing depends on what result is expected by the florist. If you want to achieve good flowering, you can, for example, use fertilizer with phosphorus, and fertilizing with nitrogen is suitable for growing a small ornamental tree. Whatever the choice of florist, the main thing is not to forget to feed the myrtle flower once a week.
Tree shrubs transplantation
Repot the woody shrub should be as needed, it should be done carefully and carefully.
In this responsible procedure, it is necessary to ensure that the trunk does not sink into the ground along with the roots, it is recommended to leave it on the surface of the pot. While the leafy handsome young, you can replant it once a year, but try not to overdo it, because very large pot will not benefit the tree. Also, it must be remembered that the flower is transplanted in the spring before it starts flowering.
Trimming and Pinching
Myrtle needs pruning in order to get a beautiful shape. This leafy flower will please the eye anyway, but if you give it the desired look with trimming, it will look unique. If you cut the top of the flower, it will decorate the interior of the room in the form of a shrub; if you trim the side parts, the myrtle will stretch upwards like a slender tree. Here it is recommended to remember the following: a woody plant is cut off when the trunk is already fully grown, and this procedure is obligatory during the spring period.
Pinch handsome leafy can be as needed in order to increase the density of crowns. The myrtle will become lush and healthier after pinching, but too often it is not recommended, as the tree may lose flowering density. Experienced growers know that procedures of this kind should be carried out moderately, taking into account all the details of the myrtle issue: care at home, because each plant loves an individual approach.
Reproduction myrtle tree
In nature, there are two ways to reproduce myrtle: from seeds and using cuttings. Both methods require quite a lot of attention and respect. Reproduction by cuttings florist conducts 2 times a year, for this it is necessary to remove them from the myrtle and plant for rooting in peat with sand. Cuttings are covered with a package to preserve moisture, and after a month, when the roots grow, they can be planted in a small pot. This myrtle is blooming in the third year of its growth.
For seeds, it is necessary to prepare the soil from peat and sand, distribute them evenly on the surface, sprinkle with a thin layer of earth on top and cover with a film. It is recommended to put this soil in a well-lit place and water it regularly. After about 2 weeks, when the leaves will have two leaves each, they can be transplanted into small pots. This myrtle will begin to bloom in the fifth year of life.
What threatens myrtle?
Is myrtle healthy: diseases and treatment, what should I fear and how to protect a woody plant? To flower growers it is necessary to know what diseases of a myrtle happen to prevent their emergence. The most common misfortune is aphid, a very unpleasant spider mite, as well as a scab. These, as well as similar pests of myrtle, can manifest themselves if the flower does not provide good lighting and does not observe proper watering. Treatment is made by insecticides, and also myrtle handsome is recommended to spray with water, paying special attention to the lower side of the foliage.
Each gardener who boasts a chic myrtle plant in his collection is incredibly proud of this, because this flower carries a lot of useful nuances. You can talk about the symbolism, history and beauty of this leafy pet forever, but it is better to just enjoy the view in your home! A lot of useful information in the article:
Myrtle is very popular both in our country and among foreign flower growers. In addition to the decorative appeal The plant is in demand due to the high content of essential oils in the foliage.
general characteristics
Evergreen shrub myrtle is characterized by small leathery leaves. Foliage ovate-pointed in shape, very attractive dark green color. Five-petal white flowers have a cream or reddish tint. The flower is 20 mm in diameter, and after flowering fruits form in the form of berries of dark green or dark blue coloring. Berries are edible, but absolutely tasteless. In culture, plant height can vary between 0.5-1.0 m.
Top Grades
Currently, growers are growing some of the most unpretentious in the care and very decorative varieties and varieties of myrtle ordinary.
| Variety / variety | Varietal features |
| "Boetics" | Slow growing plant with large, elongated and pointed foliage and large, white flowers, after the flowering of which the black and oblong berries are formed |
| "Variyegata" | A popular cultivar is relatively compact, with large and attractive, variegated leaves. |
| "Compact" | The above-ground part has very small leaves that are densely arranged on the shoots. |
| “Large Leaf” | Cultivar with large, dense green foliage and attractive rounded crown. The branches have short internodes. |
| "Small-leaved" | Aerial part is characterized by the presence of small green foliage, which is densely located on the branches. The difference is abundant flowering |
| Alhambra | The variety forms very unusual white fruits and has dense and beautiful foliage. |
| "Flore Pleno" | Varietal feature is an attractive long bloom with double flowers of medium size. |
| "Tarentina" | Differs in small foliage, densely located on the shoots, and abundant highly decorative flowering |
Photo Gallery
Myrtle ordinary: rules for the care of indoor plants
House myrtle - the plant is not too whimsical and the usual, standard care allows you to get a healthy and highly decorative plant that will please the grower for many years.
Temperature and lighting
Culture prefers bright and diffused lighting, but it can fairly easily tolerate direct sunlight for too long. In winter, the myrtle should be placed in the most lighted areas of the room. In summer, the plant can be carried out to the open ground with protection against long-term exposure to the midday sun.
Growing is carried out in moderate air temperatures.at the level of 18-20 ° C in the summer and about 6-8 ° C in the winter. Only the right temperature indicators and sufficient lighting allow you to get abundant and long flowering. In warm and too dry rooms with perennial foliage can fall off en masse.
Features of growing myrtle (video)
Watering and feeding
In the spring and summer periods, perennial is recommended to be periodically sprayed with warm and well-settled water. Irrigation activities must be regular and abundant. Overdrying of soil coma provokes the falling of leaves, but it is also impossible to prevent stagnation of water after watering in pallets.
From March to October, ornamental crops should be fed every two weeks, using for this purpose fertilizers characterized by an increased amount of phosphorus. To get a well leafy plant in spring, you need to provide the soil with enough nitrogen.
In winter, as well as in late autumn, the above-ground part of the plant is not required to be sprayed, and irrigation measures should be reduced to once a month. At this time, the decorative perennial needs no additional feeding.
Crown formation
Proper care of myrtle involves the timely and proper formation of the crown. Many amateur flower growers cut the above-ground part of perennial with the aim of obtaining an attractive shape of a standard plant with a neat and reasonably compact crown.
Myrtle is characterized by a fairly rapid growth. and is able to recover easily even after a strong pruning. Nevertheless, such a crown formation should not be carried away, since in this case the perennial flowering becomes less abundant and prolonged. In any case, the formation is carried out in the early spring or immediately after flowering.
The choice of pot and soil
When choosing a flowerpot or pot, it is recommended to give preference to a fairly high and wide plastic planting capacity, which allows the root system to feel comfortable and develop well. but too large pot provokes stagnant moisture and is unsuitable for growing indoor myrtle. When cultivating in the conditions of indoor floriculture, it is best to use planting soil consisting of sod land, medium-grained river sand and high-quality humus mixed in equal proportions.
Features of cultivation in the open ground
Out of a large number of myrtle species, an ordinary one is the most frost-resistant and hardy, therefore it is often grown in the southern regions of our country. When cultivating in conditions of open ground, it should be remembered that perennials are able to withstand short-term lowering of temperature indicators to 7-9 degrees of frost. When grown in landscape you need to pay attention to the following recommendations:
- in early August, it is required to stop feeding with nitrogen-containing fertilizers and switch to fertilizing with compounds with a high content of calcium and phosphorus, which has a positive effect on increasing the frost resistance of the plant;
- from the middle of August, it is necessary to exclude the formation of crown and pruning of perennials, which helps reduce the growth processes of new shoots;
- since autumn, the intensity and quantity of irrigation decreases, which allows the above-ground part to mature well to the winter cold.
Myrtle: pruning and propagation by cuttings (video)
In the autumn, shelters that can reduce the natural defense mechanisms needed for normal perennial wintering cannot be used.
Reproduction myrtle
Myrtle ordinary can be fairly easily propagated both by the method of cutting, and with the use of seed material obtained from the fruits of the plant.
Seeds
Significant disadvantages of seed reproduction is the risk of loss of varietal characteristics in an unchanged form, as well as a long period of seed germination. Sowing is done at the beginning of spring. period with the use of sand-peat nutrient substrate:
- seeds sown over moist soil should be sprinkled with a thin layer of soil and covered with a transparent film or glass;
- crops should be provided with diffused lighting and temperature in the growing room at +21 ºC;
- with proper breeding technology, the first shoots appear in about a week and a half;
- seedlings having four true leaflets should be planted in separate flower pots.
In seed growing, it is imperative to form a crown by pinching the aerial part at a certain height.
Cuttings
Cuttings are required to be cut only from healthy plants that have semi-lignified shoots. For the best rooting, sections are necessarily processed with special growth stimulants, and then buried in the previously prepared nutrient soil at an angle of 45-55 °. In the process of rooting, the soil substrate must be constantly checked for moisture indicators and, if necessary, moistened. Cuttings best harvested in May, as well as in August or November, due to the undulating growth of myrtle.
Myrtle ordinary in landscape design
In the open ground of the Southern Coast of Crimea, myrtle ordinary is widely used in landscape design in solitary and group, as well as border plantings.
In the middle zone of our country it is recommended to grow this decorative perennial in the form of an attractive pot culture. In this case, the plant must be taken out in the warm period of the year. and use for decoration flower beds and flower beds, located in a slight shading.
