Do you ever wonder why bridal bouquets, especially those for English brides, often have myrtle flowers? Many might think it’s because of their beautiful, glossy petals and fragrant scent, but it’s actually more than that.
This practice actually started with Queen Victoria and became a tradition for the brides of the British royal family. The reason behind this practice all lies in the many meanings and cultural significance of myrtle flowers.
If you’re curious about it, we’ll dive more into the meanings and cultural significance of myrtle flowers in this guide.
How did the myrtle flower get its name?
The name myrtle is said to be derived from the Semitic root “m-r-r,” meaning “bitter,” the same root as myrrh, a gum resin used for ritual purification. Some also say it’s coined from the Greek word “myrtos,” meaning “sprig.”
It’s worth noting that myrtle flowers are not related to crape myrtles, despite them having the same name. They are from two different plant families that just happen to have similar names.
What is the botanical origin of the myrtle flower?
Myrtle, botanically known as Myrtus, is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. These flowers originated in the Mediterranean region and North Africa.
Three species are recognized under the Myrtus genus: Myrtus communis, Myrtus nivellei, and Myrtus phyllireaefolia. There were previously over 600 species in the genus, but almost all of them were later transferred to other genera.
Myrtus communis is known as the common myrtle and is what most people think of when they hear “myrtle flower.” It’s native to the Mediterranean region but is now grown almost everywhere.
Where do myrtle flowers grow?
Myrtle flowers are native to the Mediterranean region and North Africa. However, due to their hardiness, they can grow in regions beyond their native habitat, like Macaronesia and Asia.
Many myrtle plants can be found in coastal hills and scrublands with mild climates. However, they can also be grown as ornamental shrubs in gardens.
Do myrtle flowers require a lot of maintenance?
Myrtle flowers are relatively low maintenance and easy to care for. They can thrive with adequate sunlight and regular watering.
Do myrtle flowers need shade or sun?
Myrtle flowers can thrive in full sun or partial shade, so they can adapt to various conditions.
However, if you live in areas with extremely hot summers, it’s better to provide shade during the sun’s peak to avoid scorching their leaves.
When do myrtle flowers bloom?
Myrtles typically bloom in spring to summer. This usually runs from May through July if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, where the flowers mostly grow.
What kind of soil do myrtle flowers prefer?
Myrtle flowers thrive in well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. Sandy and loamy soil are ideal since they’re less likely to get waterlogged.
When is the best time to plant myrtle flowers?
Most gardeners suggest planting myrtle flowers in early spring to take advantage of the growing season. This timing gives them enough time to establish their roots before the heat of the summer.
What do myrtle flowers mean?
Myrtle flowers carry symbols that vary across different religions, traditions, and periods. Hence, it’s important to take different backgrounds when gifting these flowers.
Their specific symbolism can also be influenced by the color of their petals.
Generally, they symbolize love, beauty, purity, joy, and celebration.
What do the colors of myrtle flowers mean?
What did the myrtle symbolize in various historical periods?
What are the spiritual or religious meanings of the myrtle flower?
What are the uses of the myrtle flower?
Myrtle flowers, while mostly prized for their beautiful and fragrant blooms, are also valued for their many uses. They can be used to treat various illnesses, add unique flavors to drinks and dishes, and create borders in gardens.
Can myrtle flowers be used in medicine?
Yes, myrtles have been traditionally used in medicine to treat various ailments, including scalp issues, fungal and bacterial infections, and sinus infections. It’s been noted in the writings of Celsus, Hippocrates, Galen, Dioscorides, and Pliny.
Essential oils made of it are believed to have antibacterial and antifungal effects, which contributed to its historical use in treating infections. Celsus, an encyclopaedist, also recommended adding ladanum to myrtle oil to treat ailments related to the scalp.
Despite its popularity in many historical medical writings, it’s still important to approach myrtle with caution if you want to use it to treat any ailments. Consult with a healthcare professional to ensure your safety.
How can myrtle flowers be used in cooking?
Myrtle berries, specifically those from Myrtus communis, can be used as spices in various dishes and ingredients in alcoholic drinks. You can add a unique scent to the dish by stuffing meat with myrtle twigs before roasting.
Mediterranean people, especially those from Sardinia and Corsica, macerate myrtle berries to make a popular aromatic liqueur called Mirto. Some also make wines using the berries.
Myrtle berries can also be used as an alternative to pepper. They’re sometimes used to make Italian Mortadella sausage as some people love their taste better than other spices.
How can myrtle flowers be used in gardening?
Myrtle flowers can be used in gardening as ornamental and hedging plants. Their fragrant nature contributes to a sensory experience in gardens, making them one of the most popular shrubs for homeowners.
They have dense foliage and a neat growth habit, so they’re perfect for defining garden spaces. You can use them to separate the lawn area from the garden beds or plant them along the edges of your pathways for a cleaner look.
Their glossy and attractive flowers can also be charming additions to your other flowers. Just make sure to cover them with bed sheets or row covers during winter, as they may not flower if they get stressed from the cold.
